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Salicylic acid
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About salicylic acid
| Type of medicine | Keratolytic |
| Used for | Warts and calluses Scaly skin conditions Mild acne Fungal skin infections |
| Available as | Gel Paint Ointment Paste Scalp application Shampoo Topical liquid |
Salicylic acid is used to treat warts and calluses, scaly skin conditions and sometimes acne. It can also be used to treat fungal infections of the skin. It works by softening and causing skin to shed.
It is often used in preparations combined with other products such as coal tar, dithranol, zinc or sulphur.
Before using salicylic acid
Before using salicylic acid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) or circulation problems such as Raynaud's disease.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to use salicylic acid
- Use this preparation exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Before beginning treatment read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Do not apply salicylic acid to broken skin.
- Do not use nail varnish or artificial nails while you are being treated with salicylic acid for nail infections.
- If you are using a paint to treat a nail infection it may be flammable. Do not apply it near naked flames.
- If you are using a salicylic acid preparation to treat warts or calluses, only apply it to the wart - try to avoid the surrounding skin. Rub the wart gently with a nail file or pumice stone once a week. You may need to use this preparation for up to three months for complete removal.
- Do not allow salicylic acid to come into contact with the face, eyes, ears, or mucous membranes (eg. mouth, vagina, inside of nose etc.).
Can salicylic acid cause problems
Salicylic acid occasionally causes skin irritation such as dryness, redness, itching, or a burning sensation. This should soon disappear. If it doesn't or if it becomes severe, stop using salicylic acid and ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
If salicylic acid is used on large areas of the body over a long time, it can cause other side-effects such as a feeling of sickness. If you experience this or any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this preparation, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store salicylic acid
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
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