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Salicylic Acid

Generic Medicine
Indications

6% Salicylic Acid: This topical preparation is used to treat common scaly skin conditions such as

  • chronic atopic dermatitis,
  • lichen simplex,
  • psoriasis,
  • seborrhoeic dermatitis,
  • and ichthyosis.

12% Salicylic Acid: This topical preparation is indicated for conditions like

  • warts (small skin growths caused by viral infection, commonly appearing on fingers or the back of the hands),
  • verruca (occurring on the soles of the feet and often painful,usually appearing as a small white ring with a black dot in the center),
  • and corns and calluses (thickened, hardened skin caused by pressure or friction, commonly on the feet due to ill-fitting shoes or on the hands).

2% Salicylic Acid: This topical preparation is used for

  • mild to moderate acne,
  • including blackheads,
  • whiteheads,
  • facial redness and swelling,
  • pimples,
  • and for preventing future acne breakouts.
Description

Salicylic Acid is available as a prescription topical agent used to remove excess keratin in hyperkeratotic skin disorders. These include verrucae and different forms of ichthyosis (such as vulgaris, sex-linked, and lamellar), keratosis of the palms and soles, keratosis pilaris, pityriasis rubra pilaris, and psoriasis affecting the body, scalp, palms, and soles.

Pharmacology

Salicylic Acid exhibits strong keratolytic and mild antiseptic properties when applied to the skin. At lower concentrations, it acts as a keratoplastic agent, helping to normalize abnormal keratinization, while at higher concentrations it acts as a keratolytic agent, promoting the shedding of the outer skin layer. It works by softening and breaking down the stratum corneum through increased hydration and reduced pH, leading to swelling, softening, and eventual desquamation of the outer skin layer. Excessive use may cause damage to normal skin tissue. At higher concentrations, it may produce a caustic effect. Adequate moisture is necessary for its action, facilitating softening and peeling of the epidermis. Additionally, it has mild antifungal and antibacterial effects.

Dosage Administration

6% & 12% Salicylic Acid: Apply to affected area once daily. Hydrate area for 5 minutes prior to application if possible.
Occlude the area at night. Wash off in morning. Salicylic Acid is used in children over 2 years.

2% Salicylic Acid: Apply enough medicine to cover the affected area once daily in 1st week then 2 to 3 times daily from 2nd week and rub gently.
After 3-5 minutes rinse face with cool water. Salicylic Acid is used in children over 2 years.

Interactions

Do not apply other topical products on the same treated area unless advised by a healthcare professional, as they may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment or increase skin irritation.

Contraindications

This preparation should not be used in patients who are hypersensitive to Salicylic Acid or any of the other ingredients in the formulation.

Side Effects

Possible allergic reactions include shortness of breath, throat tightness, swelling of the lips, face, or tongue, and hives. Severe skin irritation may also occur.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. If used during breastfeeding, it should not be applied to the chest area to prevent accidental exposure to the infant.

Precautions & Warnings

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and other mucous membranes.

Overdose Effects

Topical overdose is unlikely. However, if accidental ingestion occurs or overdose is suspected, immediate hospitalization is required.

Therapeutic Class

Topical salicylic preparation

Storage Conditions

Do not store above 30°C. Protect from light and keep out of reach of children.

Common Questions

What is Salicylic Acid for?

What does Salicylic Acid do?

What are the side effects of Salicylic Acid?

What happens if you use too much Salicylic Acid?

Can Salicylic Acid be used during pregnancy?

No available drugs found

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