Coal tar topical solution is an alcoholic mixture containing coal tar, which is produced through thermal destruction of coal. Its composition varies with the process and type of coal used, but it generally is a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons and various other organic derivatives. Coal tar is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. Coal tar topical solution is used on the skin to treat the itching, scaling, and flaking due to skin conditions such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.