Every ingredient in Nopsor. Why it's there. What it does.
Nopsor uses two key 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 key ingredients at the core of the formula.
Coal Tar
Key ingredientCoal 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: recognized under the FDA OTC monograph (M032, 21 CFR Part 358, Subpart H) at 0.5–5% for psoriasis.
Salicylic Acid
Key ingredientSalicylic 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.
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 key ingredients.
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.Traditionally used for its hydrating and softening properties.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalisTraditionally associated with improved circulation and skin rejuvenation properties.
Mastuerzo
Tropaeolum majusTraditionally used in herbal preparations.
Saponaria
Saponaria officinalisTraditionally used for its cleansing properties.
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.
Nopsor was built around pairing two key ingredients — coal tar and salicylic acid — used in sequence, alongside a blend of eight traditional herbs.
Salicylic acid's keratolytic effect clears the surface barrier first. Coal tar can then reach the skin beneath, where it works to slow skin cell turnover. 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 ingredient on its own
- Targets one mechanism only
- No preparation of the skin surface
- Standard rinse-off delivery
The Nopsor formula
- Two key ingredients used 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.
Coal tar and the FDA OTC monograph
Coal tar is used at a concentration within the range recognized by the FDA OTC monograph for psoriasis (21 CFR Part 358, Subpart H).
Steroid-Free
Nopsor contains no corticosteroids.
No Prescription Required
Nopsor is available over the counter and 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 key ingredients. 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.