About SALICYLIC ACID
SALICYLIC ACID belongs to the class of medication called ‘keratolytic agent' primarily used for peeling and shedding the outer layer of the skin in the condition of acne (pimple) and psoriasis. SALICYLIC ACID possesses comedolytic (inhibits the formation of blemishes) and anti-inflammatory activity. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.
SALICYLIC ACID contains ‘Salicylic acid’ that treats conditions of psoriasis and acne by reducing inflammation (swelling and redness) and unplugging blocked skin pores to allow pimples to shrink. SALICYLIC ACID increases the turnover rate of upper skin cells, which eventually helps in peeling and shedding off the dead skin, thereby treating comedones (skin-coloured, small bumps due to acne).
SALICYLIC ACID is for external use only. Use it in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Common side effects of SALICYLIC ACID include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, skin irritation and skin rash. Most of these side effects of SALICYLIC ACID do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. If these side effects persist longer, please consult your doctor.
Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth and nose. If the medicine comes in contact with any of these areas, rinse with water immediately. Do not use SALICYLIC ACID on sunburned, windburned, dry or irritated skin. SALICYLIC ACID can make the skin more sensitive to the sunlight; hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors. Care should be taken while applying SALICYLIC ACID on sensitive areas, such as the neck. Avoid SALICYLIC ACID contact with hair or fabrics since it has bleaching properties.
Uses of SALICYLIC ACID
Acne (pimples), Psoriasis
Medicinal Benefits
SALICYLIC ACID contains ‘Salicylic acid’ used to treat acne (pimples) by exfoliating the skin and keeping pores clear. It is an organic compound with an irritant, keratolytic (removes warts and calluses), comedolytic (inhibits the formation of blemishes) and anti-inflammatory activity. SALICYLIC ACID reduces inflammation and unplugs blocked pores (whiteheads) or open pores (blackheads). SALICYLIC ACID increases the upper layer of skin cells' turnover rate, which eventually helps in peeling the skin and treating comedones (skin-coloured, small bumps due to acne). SALICYLIC ACID also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oils and dirt to be washed away from the skin. SALICYLIC ACID is also used to treat skin conditions that involve scaling or overgrowths of skin cells, such as psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some body areas), ichthyoses (inborn conditions that cause skin dryness and scaling) and prevention of dandruff in the scalp area.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of SALICYLIC ACID
- Dry skin
- Erythema (skin redness)
- Skin irritation
- Slight tingling sensation
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not use SALICYLIC ACID if you are allergic to any of its contents. It is essential to let your doctor know if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or are a breastfeeding mother. SALICYLIC ACID may be flammable. Please do not smoke while using SALICYLIC ACID or go near smoke or fire as it is inflammable in nature. Let your doctor know if you have any liver, kidney, gastrointestinal or heart diseases before using SALICYLIC ACID. Please inform your doctor if you are using any other medications, including vitamins and herbal supplements. SALICYLIC ACID can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight; hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors. It is recommended to avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Do not apply SALICYLIC ACID on irritated and sunburned skin. Please limit the use of products that contain large amounts of alcohol (astringents, shaving creams, or after-shave lotions), hair removal products and products containing lime or spices while using SALICYLIC ACID.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: SALICYLIC ACID may interact with other drugs used to treat acne (adapalene, alitretinoin, bexarotene, isotretinoin, tazarotene, tretinoin, trifarotene).
Drug-Food Interaction: No interaction found/established.
Drug-Disease Interaction: No interaction found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
safeNo interaction found, in case of any discomfort, consult your doctor.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult your doctor before using SALICYLIC ACID if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
Breast Feeding
cautionThere are limited studies on how SALICYLIC ACID affects the breastfed infants. Please consult your doctor before using SALICYLIC ACID if you are breastfeeding. If you need to apply the cream or lotion on your breasts, don't do this shortly before giving a feed.
Driving
safeSALICYLIC ACID does not affect your ability to drive.
Liver
cautionLet your doctor know if you have any history of liver diseases before using SALICYLIC ACID.
Kidney
cautionLet your doctor know if you have any history of kidney diseases before using SALICYLIC ACID.
Children
cautionYour doctor will recommend SALICYLIC ACID to children if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Use mild soap while taking baths and prefer warm baths.
- Avoid harsh products on your skin.
- Do not scratch or pick your skin to avoid getting the affected area infected.
- Manage stress, eat healthily, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid or limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine.
Special Advise
Consult your dermatologist if you do not notice any improvement after 4-6 weeks of treatment with SALICYLIC ACID.
If the acne doesn't improve, ultrasound scanning of the abdomen is advised to check if there is any possibility of PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease).
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Acne (pimple): It is a skin condition caused when the hair follicles are plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts and nodules are types of acne. It commonly occurs in teenagers though all age groups are affected.
Psoriasis: It is a severe immune-mediated skin problem which causes skin cells to divide abnormally. It is characterized by dry, itchy, white scales covering and red bumpy patches. It is non-contagious in nature and does not spread from person to person.
FAQs
How does SALICYLIC ACID work?
Can I go out in the daylight after using SALICYLIC ACID?
Can I leave SALICYLIC ACID overnight on my skin?
Can SALICYLIC ACID be used in new born infants?
What other skin conditions does SALICYLIC ACID treat?
Available Medicines for
SALICYLIC ACID
