Salicylic acid is a medication to treat certain skin conditions, such as warts, scaly skin, or calluses. Although it can be used to treat warts, it is not intended to treat genital or facial warts. Some products that contain salicylic acid are also used to treat acne.
Salicylic acid works by increasing skin moisture and facilitating the process of exfoliating skin cells, thereby stimulating skin cell regeneration. In treating acne, salicylic acid works by reducing inflammation and opening clogged pores.
Some products containing salicylic acid can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies. However, to get a dose and duration of use that suits your skin condition, it is recommended that you consult your doctor first before using salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid trademark: Afi Ointment, Callusol, Cloveril, Kalpanax Ointment, Kutilos, Rodeca Lotion, 2-4 Ointment, Tripod Skin Ointment, Moonflower Yellow Skin Ointment
What is Salicylic Acid
| group | Over-the-counter and prescription drugs |
| Category | Keratolytic |
| Benefit | Treats calluses, warts, scaly skin or acne |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Salicylic acid for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether salicylic acid can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | External medicine liquid, gel, ointment |
Warnings Before Using Salicylic Acid
There are several things you should pay attention to before using salicylic acid, including:
- Do not use products containing salicylic acid if you are allergic to this drug or to aspirin.
- Do not use salicylic acid on the eyes, face, inner skin layer (mucosa), open wounds, moles, birthmarks, genital warts, irritation, or infected skin.
- Talk to your doctor about using salicylic acid if you have diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, or peripheral artery disease.
- Avoid using salicylic acid for children who have the flu or chickenpox, as it can increase the risk of developing Reye's syndrome.
- Keep products containing salicylic acid away from heat or exposure to fire as it is flammable.
- Consult your doctor first if you want to use salicylic acid along with certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Consult the use of salicylic acid with your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction or a more serious side effect after using salicylic acid.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Salicylic Acid
The dose of salicylic acid for each patient is different, depending on the preparation of the drug, skin condition, and the patient's response to the drug. Here is the division of salicylic acid dosage based on the condition to be treated:
- Condition: Calluses
For the preparation of 12% salicylic acid, the dose is once a day to be applied to the part that has calluses.
- Condition: wart
For the preparation of 12–26% salicylic acid the dose is 1-2 times a day applied to the skin. This medicine should not be applied to genital warts or warts on the face.
- Condition: Hyperkeratosis and scaly skin
For the preparation of salicylic acid 2% ointment, the dosage is 2 times a day to be applied to the scaly skin. For the preparation of 3% salicylic acid gel, the dosage is 1-4 times a day applied to the scaly skin.
- Condition: Pimple
For the preparation of 2% salicylic acid in the form of a facial cleanser, it can be used 2 times a day.
How to Use Salicylic Acid Correctly
Always read the information listed on the medicine package or consult a doctor before using this medicine. Salicylic acid is only used on skin that has certain disorders. This medicine should not be used on healthy skin.
To treat calluses and warts, wet the affected area with warm water for 5 minutes, then pat dry. After that, apply salicylic acid thoroughly.
If the medicine gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, or wounds, rinse immediately with clean water for 15 minutes. Wash your palms thoroughly after using medicinal products containing salicylic acid.
If you forget to use salicylic acid, use the medicine immediately if the interval with the next dose is not too close. Ignore and do not double the dose if it is close to the next dosing schedule.
Store salicylic acid at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Interaction of Salicylic Acid with Other Drugs
Salicylic acid can increase the absorption of other topical medications. If salicylic acid is used with calcipotriol, it can reduce the effectiveness of calcipotriol. In addition, taking salicylic acid along with acne medications, such as adapalene or topical tretinoin, can increase the risk of dry skin or skin irritation.
To be on the safe side, talk to your doctor if you plan to use salicylic acid with other medications or skin care products.
Salicylic Acid Side Effects and Dangers
Although rare, there are some side effects that can occur after using salicylic acid, namely the appearance of redness, heat, and peeling skin.
Check with your doctor if these side effects don't subside and get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience symptoms of an allergic drug reaction.
In addition, if used in excessive doses, salicylic acid can cause overdose symptoms such as:
- Dizzy
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Throw up
- Severe headache
- Ears ringing