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Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid (pronounced - sal-uh-sil-ick as-id) helps to correct the abnormal shedding of cells on the skin. For milder acne, salicylic acid helps unclog pores to help break down whiteheads and blackheads. It must be used continuously, just like benzoyl peroxide, since its effects stop working when you stop using it, your pores will clog up again and your acne will return.
Salicylic acid is in a class of medications called *keratolytic agents (peeling agents). Salicylic acid treats other skin conditions - such as psoriasis, dandruff, calluses, warts on the hands or feet, corns, and calluses - by softening and loosening dry, scaly, or thickened skin so that it falls off or can be removed easily.
Some Brand Names Containing Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is available *OTC in many acne products, including lotions, cleansers, and medicated pads that you apply directly to the affected area of the skin.
- Stridex ® Products
- Oxy Night Watch ®
- Neutrogena ® Products
- Noxzema ® Anti-Acne Gel
- Noxzema ® Anti-Acne Pads
- Clearasil ® Products
Many of these products contain salicylic acid in strengths of 0.5 percent to 2 percent.
Do not allow salicylic acid medication to get into your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Side Effects of Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid may cause side effects:
- Dryness of the skin
- Skin irritation
- Stinging
If any of these side effects become severe or you experience other serious side effects, call your doctor.
Always read the package insert pamphlet that comes with the acne product you buy, and follow the instructions for proper use and safety.
Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order
*Keratolytic Agents
Keratolytic agents soften and remove the horny or hard outer layer of the skin. A keratolytic agent is a peeling agent, such as salicylic acid 5% to 10% cream.
*OTC (over-the-counter)
Products you can buy at a pharmacy or on store shelves without a doctor's prescription, such as acne topical medicines, cold medicine, medicines for stomach pain, or pain relievers. A few examples - aspirin, advil (pain reliever), aleve (pain reliever), ibuprofen (pain reliever), antacids (heartburn, gas, indigestion), Monistat (treats yeast infections), laxatives (for constipation), sleep aids, and benzoyl peroxide for acne.
This summary does not include everything there is to know about the products mentioned above. Side effects other than those listed above may occur. Prescription formulas of salicylic acid may be prescribed by a doctor. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist.