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.

Acne (pimples), Psoriasis 

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. 

Cream/Gel/Lotion: Apply the advised amount of gel/lotion/cream with clean and dry hands on the skin's affected areas. Gently massage the medicine into the skin with your fingers. Wash your hands before and after applying it. Do not put a dressing or bandage on the affected areas. Foam: Apply a generous amount onto the affected areas with your hands and massage it with your fingers. Rinse off with clean water. Cleansing Soap: Work the soap into a nice lather and apply it to the affected areas with your hands. Gently massage in circular motions and rinse off with clean water. Shampoo: Wet your hair and scalp with lukewarm water. Take a small amount of shampoo and apply it directly to the scalp. Gently massage the medicine into the scalp with your fingers and rinse it off with clean water.

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

• ​​​​​​Dry skin
• Erythema (skin redness)
• Skin irritation
• Slight tingling sensation
• Skin rash
• Dizziness