Every ingredient in Nopsor. Why it's there. What it does.
Nopsor uses two FDA OTC-approved active ingredients and a proprietary blend of eight herbs. This page explains each one — what the science says, what it contributes to the formula, and why José Luis chose it in 1999.
The two FDA OTC-approved ingredients at the core of the formula.
Coal Tar
FDA OTC Approved ActiveCoal tar is obtained as a byproduct of the destructive distillation of bituminous coal. It has been used to treat psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis for over a century — one of the most studied topical ingredients in dermatology.
Its primary mechanism in psoriasis is slowing the abnormally rapid rate of skin cell production that causes plaques to form. It also helps reduce itching, scaling, and redness associated with the condition.
In Nopsor, coal tar is present in both the Shampoo and the Ointment — at different concentrations suited to each delivery format. The Ointment's petrolatum base is specifically chosen to maximize sustained contact time with the skin overnight.
Reference: FDA OTC Monograph M032 — 21 CFR Part 358, Subpart H. Coal tar approved at 0.5–5% for the control of psoriasis.
Salicylic Acid
FDA OTC Approved ActiveSalicylic acid is a keratolytic agent — it works by breaking down the protein structure that holds dead skin cells together, allowing built-up scale to shed more easily. This is the foundation of Step 1 in the Nopsor routine.
By softening and lifting scale, salicylic acid creates a clearer path for coal tar and the herbal blend to reach the skin beneath. This is why the order of application matters: Step 1 prepares, Step 2 penetrates.
Nopsor uses salicylic acid in both the Shampoo and the Ointment, within the concentration range established by the FDA OTC monograph for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.
Reference: FDA OTC Monograph M032 — 21 CFR 358.710. Salicylic acid approved at 1.8–3% for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Eight herbs. Each one chosen for a specific reason.
The proprietary herbal blend in Nopsor is not a marketing claim — it's a formula José Luis developed through years of research into botanical skin care. Each herb was selected for a specific traditional property that complements the clinical actives.
Walnut
Juglans sp.Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, supporting skin soothing and redness reduction.
Oregano
Lippia sp.Known in traditional herbal medicine for antibacterial and antifungal qualities.
Thyme
Thymus vulgarisA well-documented antiseptic herb traditionally used to support skin cleanliness and reduce surface bacteria.
Elderflower
Sambucus sp.Used traditionally for gentle hydrating and softening effects — beneficial for dry, brittle skin.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalisTraditionally associated with improved circulation and skin rejuvenation properties.
Mastuerzo
Tropaeolum majusUsed in traditional medicine for natural antibiotic-like and wound-healing properties.
Saponaria
Saponaria officinalisTraditionally used for its gentle cleansing properties, helping to maintain clean skin.
Espinosilla
Loeselia mexicana L.A traditional Mexican botanical used for additional anti-inflammatory support.
The herbal ingredients in Nopsor are not active drug ingredients under the FDA OTC monograph. They are included as part of the formula's proprietary base. Traditional use claims are not intended to imply clinical efficacy.
The formula is designed as a system, not a list of ingredients.
Most OTC psoriasis products use one active ingredient — either coal tar or salicylic acid — in isolation. Nopsor was built around a different philosophy: that the two actives work better in sequence, and that the herbal base supports both.
Salicylic acid's keratolytic effect clears the surface barrier first. Coal tar then has direct, unobstructed access to the skin beneath — where its cell-slowing mechanism is most effective. The herbal blend's traditional calming and moisturizing properties support the skin throughout the process.
This wasn't an accidental combination. José Luis spent years testing this specific formulation — not just which ingredients to include, but how to deliver them and in what sequence.
One active in isolation
- Targets one mechanism only
- No preparation of the skin surface
- Standard rinse-off delivery
The Nopsor formula
- Two actives working in sequence
- Step 1 preps, Step 2 penetrates
- Overnight sustained contact time
- Herbal base supports the skin throughout
What's in it. What's not. And why that matters.
FDA OTC Monograph Compliant
Both active ingredients are used at concentrations established as generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) under 21 CFR Part 358.
Steroid-Free
Nopsor contains no corticosteroids. There is no risk of steroid-related side effects such as skin thinning or rebound flares.
No Prescription Required
Both coal tar and salicylic acid are available OTC under FDA monograph conditions. Nopsor does not require a prescription.
Sun Sensitivity Note
Coal tar may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Use caution when exposing treated skin to sun for up to 24 hours after application.
What Nopsor does not contain
Now you know what's in it. Try it for 40 days.
Two FDA OTC-approved actives. Eight traditional herbs. A formula refined for 27 years. And a 40-day guarantee so you can see if it works for you — with nothing to lose.