Do you have any annoying skin problems that come up from time to time? For example, acne that won't go away no matter how much medication you use, warts on the soles of your feet, or corns that form when you wear shoes. Salicylic Acid is the main ingredient in the creams and gels we often use for these skin problems. So today, let's talk about what Salicylic Acid is, how exactly it is used, and everything else you need to know about it.
What is Salicylic Acid?
Simply put, salicylic acid is a chemical compound that helps loosen and dissolve the top layer of dead skin cells on our skin, making it a solution to many skin problems.
Here are some of the main uses of this:
- Common warts and plantar warts.
- Remove thickened skin in skin diseases like psoriasis.
- Remove calluses and corns.
- Treat acne and prevent its recurrence.
This medication comes in various forms, such as cream, gel, and lotion/solution. Your doctor will prescribe the type that best suits your skin problem.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes a salicylic acid cream, it's important to know some things about your health. Be sure to mention these things in particular:
- If your child has a viral infection like chickenpox or flu.
- If you have kidney disease or liver disease.
- If you have an allergic reaction to salicylic acid, aspirin, other medications, foods, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or not, and how to use it.
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is essential to know how to use it correctly.
The most important thing is that this medicine is for external use only . Do not drink or take it internally for any reason.
- Read the instructions on the medicine package carefully, or use it exactly as your doctor tells you.
- Do not apply this to injured, cracked, or red, swollen skin.
- Be careful not to get it on sensitive areas like eyes, lips, nose, mouth, and genitals. If you accidentally get it on, rinse it off immediately with water.
- Use only as often as your doctor tells you. Overuse will not make you feel better quickly, but it can cause side effects.
About use for young children
Be sure to talk to your pediatrician about using this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine is not usually recommended for children under 2 years of age .
What to do if you use too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, Salicylic acid can interact with some other medications you are taking. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| Type of medicine | Things to consider |
|---|---|
| Blood thinners | For example, if you are taking medication like Warfarin , salicylic acid may increase the risk of bleeding. |
| Some medications for diabetes | There may be a risk of blood sugar levels dropping unnecessarily. |
| Methotrexate | There is an increased risk of side effects of methotrexate. |
| Types of Steroids | Caution should be exercised when used with steroids such as Prednisone or Cortisone . |
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
Other things to be aware of when taking this medicine
- Be careful with sunlight: This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity) . Therefore, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If you do go out, use sunscreen, wear a hat, and wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your skin problem doesn't improve, or if it gets worse, tell your doctor right away.
- Risk groups: Children under 12 years of age or people with kidney/liver disease are at higher risk of serious side effects if this medicine is applied to a large area of the body. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Feeling unusually weak or tired
- Rapid or difficult breathing
- Diarrhea
- Confusion
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, salicylic acid can cause side effects in some people.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
A skin rash, itching, or other allergic symptoms, such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. These may be signs of a serious allergy. | |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
Mild burning, redness, or dryness of the skin where the medicine was applied. This usually subsides within a few days. However, if it persists, tell your doctor. |
Take-Home Message
- Salicylic Acid is a topical medication. Never take it internally.
- Before using this medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and any other medications you are taking.
- Be very careful when using on children. Consult a pediatrician.
- Protect yourself from the sun while taking the medication, as your skin will be sensitive to sunlight.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing) or other serious side effects ( dizziness , confusion), stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
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