Salicylic acid shampoos are used to treat scalp conditions ranging from severe dandruff to painful psoriasis. Although the products have few side effects, salicylic acid is a medication and should be used with caution. In particular, these products should not be used by children under 19 because of the danger of Reye's syndrome.
How Salicylic Acid Works
Salicylic acid belongs to a family of medicines called keratolytics. These drugs are topical treatments designed to treat a variety of skin conditions. The drug softens a protein in skin called keratin, the same protein present in nails and hair. Keratin makes tissues hard and scaly, a quality desired in a fingernail but not in skin. Salicylic acid loosens scaly patches in skin so they can more easily be removed. It is sometimes used with other topical treatments, the salicylic acid softening the skin so the other medication can penetrate more easily.
Conditions Treated
Salicylic acid shampoos are commonly used as dandruff treatment. Dandruff is a mild version of a condition called seborrhoeic dermatitis. Patients with more severe versions of this skin disease use salicylic acid shampoos to control their outbreaks. The shampoos are also common as psoriasis treatment. Psoriasis is another scaly rash that can affect all parts of the body, including the scalp.
How To Use
Salicylic shampoos should be used as directed by your doctor. For some conditions, the shampoo should be applied with dry hair directly to affected areas of the scalp. The shampoo should be left on for a length of time directed by your doctor, typically anywhere from five to 60 minutes. For other uses, such as dandruff treatment, the product should be used on wet hair like a typical shampoo and massaged into the hair for several minutes. In either case, rinse hair thoroughly when done and wash your hands after each use.
Dangers
Be careful not to get the shampoo in your eyes, nose or mouth during use. If you accidentally swallow it, call your local poison control center. Special care should be used with children under 19 years old. Salicylic acid is in the same chemical family as aspirin. The use of salicylates in children suffering from flu-like illnesses or chicken pox has been linked to Reye's syndrome. Although these shampoos might be safe for healthy children, parents may not remember to discontinue use if the child gets sick. A safer option is to ask your doctor for other treatments for children with scalp conditions. These shampoos should also not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Alternative Treatments
Options other than salicylic acid are available for these skin conditions. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can be controlled with other medicated shampoos containing coal tar, ketoconazole or other substances. The condition can also be treated with topical steroids. Psoriasis often responds to treatments as gentle as sunshine exposure or warm baths. Alternate psoriasis treatments include dithranol, calcineurin inhibitors and topical steroids.
