Salicylic Acid 1%

Salicylic Acid 1% — Uses and Benefits

Salicylic Acid 1% is mainly used to treat various skin conditions that involve excess buildup of skin cells.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Acne and pimples
• Common warts
• Corns and calluses
• Dandruff and scaly scalp conditions
• Psoriasis and other conditions causing thickened, scaly skin
• Ichthyosis (dry, scaly skin condition)

HOW IT WORKS

• It works by softening the keratin protein that holds skin cells together
• This helps loosen and shed dead skin cells from the surface
• It helps unclog pores, reducing acne breakouts
• It reduces scaling and flaking of skin

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used to treat bacterial or fungal skin infections
• It is not used for deep skin infections or wounds
• It is not meant for internal use
• It is not a treatment for allergic skin reactions or eczema flare-ups
• It should not be used on moles, birthmarks, or genital warts unless specifically advised by a doctor

How to Use Salicylic Acid 1%

HOW TO TAKE IT

• For external use only, apply only to the skin as directed by your doctor
• Clean and dry the affected area before applying
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area only, avoiding healthy surrounding skin
• Wash your hands after application unless the hands are the treated area
• Do not apply to broken skin, open wounds, or infected areas unless advised
• Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes
• Use only as often and for as long as your doctor recommends

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Apply as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed one
• Do not apply extra or more frequently to make up for a missed application

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the container tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Salicylic Acid 1% — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Mild burning or stinging at the site of application
• Dryness of skin
• Peeling or flaking of treated skin
• Redness at the application site

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Irritation of surrounding healthy skin
• Mild itching
• Skin discoloration in treated area

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe redness, swelling, or blistering of skin
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or swelling of face and lips
• Excessive skin peeling with pain
• Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or increasing pain at application site
• Symptoms of salicylate toxicity such as ringing in ears, confusion, or rapid breathing if used over large areas

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Salicylic Acid 1% — Safety Information and Precautions

This composition is available both as an over-the-counter product in lower strengths and as a prescription item for certain higher-strength or medicated formulations in India; please check with your pharmacist about the specific product.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to salicylic acid or aspirin-related medicines
• Have broken, infected, or irritated skin at the site unless advised by a doctor
• Are a child, unless specifically directed by a doctor, especially for use over large body areas

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have diabetes or poor blood circulation, especially before using on feet
• Have sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies
• Plan to use it on a large area of the body or for a long duration
• Are using other topical medicines or cosmetic products on the same area

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other topical acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or retinoids may increase irritation
• Other keratolytic agents applied to the same area
• Topical products containing alcohol, which may increase dryness and irritation

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use makeup or sunscreen over it?

Yes, but wait for the medicine to dry completely and check with your pharmacist for suitable products, as skin may be more sensitive to sun.

How long does it take to work?

Improvement in acne, warts, or corns may take several weeks of regular use; do not stop early without consulting your doctor.

Can I use it on my face and body at the same time?

• Only if your doctor has advised this, as using it on large areas increases the risk of irritation and absorption into the body.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.