How to Use Pine Tar Soap for KP and Psoriasis Relief

By SkinFoodFix | Published: 2026-10-27

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use pine tar soap to calm keratosis pilaris bumps, psoriasis plaques, and eczema itch with a simple daily routine.

Quick answer

Use pine tar soap daily on affected areas with warm water and gentle circular motions, then rinse and pat dry. Avoid hot water and scrubbing to prevent irritation.

Why pine tar soap works for KP and psoriasis

Pine tar has been used for centuries to calm inflammatory skin conditions. The natural compounds in pine tar help reduce scaling, itching, and redness associated with keratosis pilaris, psoriasis, and eczema. The soap also contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and olive oil to prevent the dryness that often accompanies these conditions.

When to expect results

With consistent daily use, most people notice a reduction in KP bumps and psoriasis plaques within two to three weeks. Eczema itch relief may come sooner, often after the first few uses. Results vary by skin type and condition severity, so patience and routine are key.

How to use pine tar soap for KP, psoriasis, and eczema

Wet the affected area with lukewarm water: Use water that is warm, not hot. Hot water strips natural oils and can worsen dryness and irritation. Lukewarm water helps open pores and prepare the skin for cleansing. Test water temperature on your wrist first—if it feels hot, it's too hot.
Lather the pine tar soap in your hands: Rub the bar between wet palms until you have a rich lather. Do not rub the bar directly on sensitive skin, as the friction can aggravate KP bumps or psoriatic plaques. The lather is enough to deliver the active ingredients. If your skin reacts, try lathering on a soft washcloth instead of directly on the skin.
Gently massage the lather onto the area in circles: Use your fingertips to apply the lather with light, circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid scrubbing or using a loofah, which can irritate KP bumps and psoriasis scales. The goal is to cleanse without stripping the skin barrier. A common mistake is scrubbing too hard—let the soap do the work.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry: Rinse with lukewarm water until all soap residue is gone. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel—do not rub. Rubbing can cause micro-tears and worsen itching or flaking. Leaving soap residue can lead to dryness or irritation, so rinse well.
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer immediately: Within 3 minutes of drying, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration. This step is critical for KP and psoriasis because the soap can temporarily lift dead skin cells, and moisturizing helps prevent rebound dryness. Skip this step and you may notice more flaking or tightness within an hour.

Product facts

Pine Tar Soap for KP Bumps, Psoriasis, Eczema, + Bug Bites: This pine tar soap is all-natural with organic ingredients including shea butter and essential oils of cypress, fir needle, orange, and lemongrass. The combination of pine tar with moisturizing shea butter helps soothe dry, flaky skin while the essential oils provide a calming aroma.
Pine Tar Soap for KP Bumps, Psoriasis, Eczema, + Bug Bites