Salicylic acid is a naturally occurring acid that is commonly used as a topical treatment for a range of skin disorders, including seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and viral warts. Salicylic acid is an ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription skin medications. It helps to remove skin cells and reduce the flaking and irritation associated with these illnesses.
Description
Salicylic acid is a plant hormone that can be found in broccoli, peppers, cucumbers, raisins and white willow bark. When salicylic acid reacts with acetic acid, it forms acetylsalicylic acid, known as aspirin. When it reacts with methanol, salicylic acid forms methyl salicylate, more commonly called oil of wintergreen. In chemical form, it is a white, odorless crystalline powder that, when mixed with water, forms a weak acid solution.
Medicinal Actions
Salicylic acid is referred to as a keratolytic. This means that the acid produces a peeling effect on keratinous skin cells, causing the outer layers of skin to shed. Treatment with the acid will loosen skin flakes and soften scales. Salicylic acid also slows skin cells in hair follicles from clogging pores. This helps to prevent the formation of plugs in the pores that can lead to acne.
Uses
Salicylic acid is used as a topical agent in the treatment of certain skin disorders, including acne, seborrheic dermatitis, warts and psoriasis. Mild solutions of the chemical are used for most disorders. Warts often require a stronger concentration of the acid, sometimes up to 40 percent, to soften the hard tissue and trigger the immune system to attack the virus that caused the wart.
Preparations
Salicylic acid comes in a range of topical preparations. These include lotions, creams, ointments, foams and gels. Medicated soaps and shampoos may also contain salicylic acid. The acid can also be delivered in a glue-like solution that dries on the skin or high concentration plaster that is held in place with an adhesive bandage. Medicated dressings, pads and patch forms are also available.
Products
Products for warts include a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) preparations. Treatments for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp include medicated dandruff shampoos that contain around 3 percent salicylic acid. For acne, OTC products contain salicylic acid in lower concentrations. Psoriasis can be treated with either OTC products or prescription strength medications. A dermatologist can also prescribe more potent medicines for warts, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis and acne.
Precautions
Do not use products containing salicylic acid if you are sensitive to aspirin or wintergreen. Care should be taken when using salicylic acid with other skin treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, sulfur or tretinoin-based medications such as Retin-A. Side effects can include redness and stinging of the skin. Serious side effects may include headache, rapid breathing, ringing or buzzing in the ears, hearing loss, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and dizziness. If any of these occur, discontinue the use of the product and consult your physician.
