Pinetarsol Gel

Pinetarsol Gel is a soap-free cleansing gel manufactured by EGO Pharmaceuticals, an Australian pharmaceutical and skincare company, and distributed in Malaysia. Its active ingredient is Tar, in the form of Pine Tar, at a concentration of 1.6% w/w, formulated with preservatives including Phenethyl Alcohol and Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol, along with glycerin, sorbitol, sodium hydroxide, and water. The gel is formulated to a pH of approximately 6, close to the skin’s natural pH range.

Pinetarsol Gel is an OTC product, available in Malaysia without a doctor’s prescription. It is a soap-free, cleansing gel designed to be used on wet skin and rinsed off, and can be applied to the face, hands, or body. Because it does not contain conventional soap, it is formulated to be gentler on the skin’s surface than standard bar soap while still providing a cleansing action, and it does not contain corticosteroids.

Pinetarsol Gel is sold in Malaysia in a 100g tube or bottle. What distinguishes it from many other cleansing gels is its pine tar content, a traditional dermatological ingredient with a long history of use in topical skin products, combined with its soap-free, low-lather cleansing base.

Apply Pinetarsol Gel to wet skin on the face, hands, or body. Gently massage the gel into the skin to work up a light lather, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. It can be used in combination with Pinetarsol Solution as part of a wider routine, according to the guidance on the product packaging or from a pharmacist. Avoid contact with the eyes; if the gel gets into the eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with water.

Pinetarsol Gel is a topical cleansing product rather than a medicine taken by mouth, so a conventional “dose” does not apply. It is generally used once or twice daily, or as directed by a doctor or pharmacist, applied to wet skin and rinsed off each time. There is no fixed maximum daily frequency stated for general use, but if skin irritation develops or your skin condition does not improve with regular use, stop using the product and seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist.

Use Pinetarsol Gel before the expiry date printed on the tube or bottle and outer carton. Once opened, use within the period stated on the packaging, and discard the product if its colour, texture, or smell changes noticeably.

Store Pinetarsol Gel below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap or lid tightly closed after use, and store it out of the reach and sight of children. Avoid freezing the product.

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to pine tar, phenethyl alcohol, dichlorobenzyl alcohol, or any other ingredient in Pinetarsol Gel.
• Use on broken, weeping, or heavily infected skin without prior advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
• Use in or around the eyes.

• Pinetarsol Gel is for external topical use only, so oral drug or food interactions are not applicable.
• Avoid using other medicated skin cleansers or topical treatments on the same area at the same time without checking with a doctor or pharmacist, as combining products may increase skin irritation.
• Pine tar-containing products may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight; take sun-protective measures if you plan to be outdoors after use.

• Apply to wet skin rather than dry skin for a smoother, more even cleanse.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all residue.
• Keep the cap tightly closed between uses to maintain the gel’s texture.
• Do a small patch test first if you are trying Pinetarsol Gel for the first time.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and rinse immediately with water if it occurs.
• Consider extra sun protection after use, as pine tar may increase sun sensitivity in some people.

Precautions: Do a small patch test before first use, particularly if you have sensitive or broken skin. Avoid contact with the eyes and rinse immediately with water if this occurs. Because pine tar-containing products may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, take extra sun-protective measures after use, such as wearing sunscreen or protective clothing.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Stop using Pinetarsol Gel and seek medical advice if you develop a widespread rash, significant swelling, blistering, or any other sign of an allergic reaction. See a doctor or pharmacist if your skin condition does not improve, or appears to worsen, despite regular and correct use, or if you notice unusual sun sensitivity after use.