Scalp Health · Psoriasis · Coal Tar
Cocois Ointment: A Clinically Proven Solution for Scalp Psoriasis and Seborrheic Dermatitis
Medically authored & reviewed by
Dr Abdishakur M Ali
General Practitioner · Telehealth Expert · Clinical Director
Last reviewed: March 2026
GPhC Registered Pharmacy
✓ GPhC-registered pharmacy #9011198 · ✓ Pharmacist independent prescribers · ✓ Discreet next-day delivery · ✓ UK-regulated online consultation
Medical disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Cocois is a prescription-only medicine. Always consult a qualified prescriber before use. Our prescribers are GPhC-registered pharmacist independent prescribers.
When over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos are not enough to clear thick, stubborn scaling from the scalp, Cocois ointment offers a more targeted approach. Combining three clinically active ingredients in a nourishing coconut oil base, it has a long track record in the management of scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema — particularly where significant scale build-up has occurred.
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Access Doctor provides Cocois following a quick, regulated online consultation. GPhC-registered pharmacist independent prescribers. Discreet next-day delivery.
Start Consultation →How Cocois Works: Three Active Ingredients
Cocois is effective because each of its three active ingredients tackles the problem from a different angle:
Coal Tar Solution — A well-established dermatological agent with anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), and antiseptic properties. It slows down the excessive skin cell growth characteristic of psoriasis, reducing scaling and thickening of the scalp skin.
Salicylic Acid — A keratolytic agent that gently exfoliates the scalp, loosening and removing the dead skin cells that accumulate in thick scales. By clearing this build-up, it allows the other active ingredients to penetrate more effectively.
Precipitated Sulphur — Acts as a mild antimicrobial and keratolytic, further supporting a healthy scalp environment and minimising scaling. Combined with coal tar and salicylic acid, it provides comprehensive coverage.
The ointment also contains coconut oil, which softens and nourishes the scalp, reducing dryness and making the scaling easier to remove.
How to Apply Cocois Ointment
1
Preparation: Part your hair into sections to expose the affected areas of scalp. Your scalp should be dry before application.
2
Apply a thin layer: Gently massage a small amount of Cocois ointment directly onto the affected scalp areas. Avoid broken, inflamed, or weeping skin.
3
Leave on: Allow the ointment to work for at least one hour — or overnight for stubborn scaling. Cover with an old towel or shower cap if leaving on overnight.
4
Wash off: Use a mild shampoo to wash the ointment off thoroughly. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
5
Frequency: Begin once weekly. For more severe cases, your prescriber may advise daily use initially, reducing as improvement occurs.
Safety note: Cocois ointment may stain clothing, bedding, and jewellery. Avoid using near open flames. If skin irritation develops or symptoms worsen after 4 weeks of use, stop treatment and consult a prescriber.
Who Should Not Use Cocois?
- Children under six years old
- People with pustular psoriasis (blisters filled with pus)
- Broken, inflamed, or infected skin on the scalp
- Known allergy to salicylates (e.g., aspirin) or any Cocois ingredient
- Anyone who is pregnant — discuss risks and benefits with a prescriber first
Children aged 6–12 may use Cocois only under medical supervision.
Order Cocois Ointment Online
Access Doctor provides prescription-only Cocois ointment following a regulated online consultation. Our pharmacist independent prescribers will assess your suitability and dispatch discreetly.
Order Cocois →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cocois ointment used for?
Cocois ointment is used to treat scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and other conditions that cause thick, stubborn scaling on the scalp. Its three active ingredients — coal tar solution, salicylic acid, and precipitated sulphur — work together to reduce scaling and inflammation.
How long do you leave Cocois ointment on the scalp?
Cocois should be left on the scalp for at least one hour before washing off with a mild shampoo. For very thick scaling, your prescriber may advise overnight application.
Can Cocois ointment stain hair or clothing?
Yes. Cocois ointment contains coal tar which can stain fabrics and potentially affect light-coloured hair. Cover your pillow with an old towel if using overnight, and rinse thoroughly.
Is Cocois ointment prescription-only?
Yes. Cocois is a prescription-only medicine available from Access Doctor following an online consultation with our GPhC-registered pharmacist independent prescribers.
How often should I use Cocois ointment?
Typically, begin with once-weekly application. For more severe scaling, your prescriber may recommend daily use for the first 3–7 days until improvement is seen. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions.
References
- NICE. Psoriasis: management (NG96). Updated 2022. nice.org.uk
- NICE. Seborrhoeic dermatitis. CKS 2023. cks.nice.org.uk
- NHS. Coal tar. nhs.uk/medicines/coal-tar
- GPhC. Standards for registered pharmacies. pharmacyregulation.org
Access Doctor is a GPhC-registered online pharmacy (registration number 9011198). All prescriptions are issued by GPhC-registered pharmacist independent prescribers. Medicines supplied are MHRA-compliant UK-licensed products.


