Salicylic acid topical is available in many different forms, such as liquid, gel, lotion, cream, ointment, foam, soap, shampoo, and cloth pads.

Both AHAs and BHAs gently exfoliate the skin through a chemical process, but they work a little differently. AHAs are water soluble and work on the surface to remove dead skin cells, thereby improving the signs of aging. BHAs are oil-soluble, so they’re able to travel deeper to unclog pores, which is why they make for better acne treatments, notes Dr. Jeffy. Many of the benefits of salicylic acid can be attributed to its exfoliating properties. As a type of BHA, it’s a chemical exfoliant that facilitates skin cell turnover, sloughing off dead skin cells to make room for new ones, explains Dr. Green. Exfoliating is key for acne prevention because it gets rid of the buildup of dead skin cells that could lead to breakouts. Routine exfoliation also smooths and brightens the complexion, Dr. Jeffy adds. Salicylate poisoning is usually associated with plasma concentrations >350mg/L (2.5mmol/L). Most adult deaths occur in patients whose concentrations exceed 700mg/L (5.1mmol/L). Single doses less than 100mg/kg are unlikely to cause serious poisoning. Salicylic acid isn’t listed as an active ingredient, so it may be used in a very low concentration. Apply to affected areas only, or as directed by a physician. Do not apply over a large area of the body.Whilst many salicylic acid preparations are available from a pharmacy, some preparations are only available on a doctor's prescription. These include preparations containing a combination of salicylic acid and topical corticosteroid, e.g. Diprosalic®. How to use salicylic acid preparations A mixed respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis with normal or high arterial pH (normal or reduced hydrogen ion concentration) is usual in adults and children over the age of four years. In children aged four years or less, a dominant metabolic acidosis with low arterial pH (raised hydrogen ion concentration) is common. Acidosis may increase salicylate transfer across the blood brain barrier. If you are to use this soap in a foot bath, work up rich suds in hot water and soak the feet for 10 to 15 minutes. Then pat dry without rinsing.

Ask your doctor before using salicylic acid topical if the condition covers a large area of the body. Salicylic acid falls in the latter camp, and it’s derived from the bark of willow trees, explains Dr. Negbenebor. Wash the area to be treated and dry thoroughly. Warts may be soaked in warm water for 5 minutes before drying. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. It contains triclosan, which can kill acne-causing bacteria but some people avoid it when possible.

Precautions when using topical salicylic acid preparations

Dosage forms: topical bar (1%), topical cream (-; 3%; 6%), topical foam (6%), topical gel (17%; 2%; 3%; 6%), Some of these drugs need to be shaken before use. Be sure you know if this product needs to be shaken before using it. When we asked dermatologists what ingredients to look for in a salicylic acid product, niacinamide was the overwhelming recommendation. It’s a B vitamin that promotes collagen production, evens out skin tone, and reduces inflammation, Dr. Farnsworth says. Niacinamide is also known for reducing the appearance of pores. Common features include vomiting, dehydration, tinnitus, vertigo, deafness, sweating, warm extremities with bounding pulses, increased respiratory rate and hyperventilation. Some degree of acid-base disturbance is present in most cases.