Salicylic Acid Gel - Uses, Side Effects, and More
Generic Name(S): salicylic acid
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Uses
This product is used to treat mild to moderate acne. It may be used in combination with other acne
treatments. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first before combining acne treatments. Salicylic
acid belongs to a class of drugs known as salicylates. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid may work by
helping the skin to shed dead cells from the top layer and by decreasing redness and swelling
(inflammation). This decreases the number of pimples that form and speeds healing.
How to use salicylic acid topical
Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Before using this product for the first time, check if you are allergic to it. To check, put a small amount on
one or two small areas of acne for three days. If you have an allergic reaction, stop using this product
and get medical help right away (see the symptoms of an allergic reaction in the Side Effects section). If
you don't have an allergic reaction, you can use the product.
This medication is for use on the skin only. To avoid irritation, do not let this medication come into
contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, groin, or any broken skin (such as cuts, scrapes, rashes). If you do
get the medication in those areas, flush the area with cool water for 15 minutes.
If you are using a cream, lotion, solution, or gel, apply a thin film of the medication to the areas of
your skin affected by acne, usually 1 to 2 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Before applying each
dose, gently wash the affected area with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Apply a small amount of medicine
to the affected area and rub in gently. If using the pads, wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then
pat dry. Wipe the pad gently onto the skin to apply the medication, usually 1 to 3 times a day or as
directed by your doctor. Wash hands after use.
If using cleansers containing salicylic acid, wet the affected area. Gently rub the cleanser into the skin for
10 to 20 seconds, or as directed. Do not scrub the skin. Work into a full lather and rinse thoroughly, and
then pat dry. If too much drying occurs, you may need to rinse the cleanser off sooner or use it less
often. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not use large amounts, apply
this drug more often, or use it for a longer period than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but
the chance for side effects may be increased.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical
help right away.
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Side Effects
Skin reactions such as peeling/burning/dry/reddened skin may occur, especially at the start of
treatment. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. You may
need to apply smaller amounts of the drug or use it less often. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for
more details.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the
benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have
serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any
symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the
face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-
1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health
Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
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Precautions
Before using salicylic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs-NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen); or if you have any other allergies. This
product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to
your pharmacist for more details.
If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this
product: diabetes, poor circulation, skin problems (such as infection, wounds, atopic dermatitis).
During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits
with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Source: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18-193/salicylic-acid-topical/salicylic-acid-for-acne-
topical/details
