Salicylic acid is used for a variety of skin conditions and it is available in many over-the-counter formulations. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxyl acid used topically and is available in many forms such as soap, shampoo, cream, gel and ointment. It acts as an agent that removes the outer layers of the skin, and it also removes excess keratin deposited on the outer layer of the skin. Salicylic acid may cause a burning sensation due to irritation and its use should be avoided in infants and children, as suggested by the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library
Chemical Peeling
Chemical peeling is the process by which a chemical product is applied to the skin in order to remove the top layers of the skin. The removed layers separate and peel off, leaving the skin looking fresher and smoother. Salicylic acid is one of the products used during chemical peeling. Chemical peels can be used to treat fine wrinkles around the mouth and eyes, uneven discoloration and mild acne.
Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris, literally excessive keratinization of the hair follicle, is a common skin disorder where the dead cells plug the openings of hair follicles, causing unsightly pimple-like, small, painless elevations in the skin. Keratosis pilaris is common on the buttocks, upper thighs and arms. Salicylic acid, which loosens and removes the dead cells plugging the hair follicles, and moisturizers are the mainstays of treatment. This condition is worse in the winter and may recur after cessation of treatment.
Treatment of Warts, Corns and Calluses
Warts are skin growths caused by one of the many human papilloma viruses. Most warts resolve by themselves, but in rare instances, they may need removal. Salicylic acid can be applied to the wart by a doctor or the patient himself. The dead tissue should be scrapped off the wart before the application of salicylic acid. MayoClinic.com suggests that salicylic acid treatments for warts continue for up to 12 weeks until the wart is removed. Corns and calluses may also be removed using salicylic acid; before application the patient should soak the corns or calluses in warm water for five minutes.
