Pine Tar Soap: Nature’s Original Remedy for Skin That Works Hard

Pine Tar Soap: Nature’s Original Remedy for Skin That Works Hard

In a world full of skincare gimmicks and “all-natural” claims that don’t hold up, Pine Tar Soap is the real deal. This centuries-old remedy has been trusted by outdoorsmen, mechanics, farmers, and warriors of the wilderness for everything from eczema to psoriasis, itchy skin, and rashes—and for good reason.

Let’s break it all down. No fluff, no filler. Just the facts.

🔬 What Is Pine Tar?

Pine tar is a sticky substance made through the carbonization of pine wood—a high-heat, low-oxygen process that concentrates its natural resins and compounds.

Used since ancient times for everything from sealing Viking ships to treating skin conditions in Scandinavian medicine, pine tar’s power lies in its natural antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-itch properties.

🔎 What the Science Says: Evidence for Skin Conditions

Let’s get into the hard evidence. Here's why pine tar isn’t just folklore—it's backed by credible dermatological sources and historical medical use.

✅ 1. Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Itch Benefits

A 2017 study in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment concluded that pine tar is effective in reducing itching and inflammation in patients with eczema and seborrheic dermatitis. (Source)

“Pine tar products were found to significantly reduce pruritus (itching) and scaling in patients over a 4-week period.”

✅ 2. Recognized in Psoriasis Treatment

The National Psoriasis Foundation lists pine tar as a recognized traditional therapy, noting its ability to slow skin cell growth, reduce itching, and ease plaque thickness. (Source)

It’s especially valued for being non-steroidal—offering relief without the long-term side effects of topical steroids.

✅ 3. Antimicrobial Properties

Pine tar contains phenols and turpenes with antibacterial and antifungal effects, which help manage:

  • Skin infections

  • Athlete’s foot

  • Razor burn

  • Folliculitis

A 2005 study in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology reinforced the broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of pine tar, especially against gram-positive bacteria commonly found in skin flare-ups. (PubMed Abstract)

💪 What Pine Tar Soap Is Good For

Our bar isn’t some mass-produced gimmick. It’s cold-processed, handmade in small batches, and loaded with activated charcoal, kaolin clay, and a punch of real pine tar—the same stuff trusted for generations.

Here’s what it’s great for:

Problem What It Does
Eczema Soothes itching, calms inflammation, and restores skin barrier.
Psoriasis Slows cell turnover, softens scales, and reduces redness.
Rough, cracked hands Deep cleans without stripping natural oils.
Body acne & back breakouts Antimicrobial action clears pores.
Underarm rashes or jock itch Naturally disinfects and relieves irritation.
Post-workout showers Cuts through sweat and grime without over-drying.

This is the bar for men who sweat, work, and play hard—and need their skin to keep up.

🧼 How to Use Pine Tar Soap

Whether you're coming home from a long shift or stepping out of the woods, using pine tar soap is straightforward—but the results are anything but ordinary.

1. Lather It Up Right

Pine tar bars have a natural smoky scent and a deep brown hue. Wet the bar, work into a thick lather in your hands or on a washcloth, and apply generously.

2. Let It Sit

For problem areas like eczema patches, let the lather sit for 30–60 seconds. This allows the pine tar to soak in and do its job.

3. Use Daily (Or As Needed)

You can use it head to toe—or rotate it in when skin needs a reset. Some use it daily, others just during flare-ups.

🏆 Why Our Pine Tar Soap Is Different

There are pine tar soaps—and then there’s Wild Timber’s.

We don’t water it down with detergents or use fake fragrance. Our formula is:

  • 100% natural – No sulfates, parabens, or petroleum-based junk.

  • Hand-poured in the USA – Small batches, high quality.

  • Crafted with grit – Activated charcoal and kaolin clay pull dirt and toxins while the pine tar goes to work.

  • Tested on humans (not labs) – We use it. Our customers use it. And it works.

🪓 Final Thoughts: Bring the Forest to Your Shower

This bar isn’t for the dainty. It’s bold, smoky, and unapologetically rugged—like nature itself. Whether you’re battling dry skin, rashes, or just want to clean up without chemicals, Pine Tar Soap has earned its place on the shelf.

Nature made it. We refined it. Your skin’s about to thank you.

📚 Sources & Further Reading

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