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Topical keratolytic

Salicylic acid: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Compound W, Bazuka, Clearasil (some products), Duofilm.

Queste informazioni hanno carattere puramente orientativo e non costituiscono un parere medico. Consulta sempre un professionista sanitario qualificato per problemi medici personali. In caso di emergenza, chiama il numero di emergenza locale.

What it is used for

  • Warts and verrucas
  • Acne and blackheads
  • Corns and calluses
  • Dandruff and scaly scalp conditions
  • Psoriasis scaling (when advised)

How it works

Salicylic acid softens and helps shed the outer layer of skin, which removes thickened skin, unblocks pores and gradually wears away warts and corns.

How it is taken

Available as gels, liquids, plasters, pads, shampoos and ointments at different strengths for different uses. Apply only to the target area exactly as the label or your clinician directs, protecting the surrounding healthy skin. Wart and corn treatments often need repeated application over several weeks.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Mild burning, stinging or skin peeling
  • Dryness or redness around the treated area

Serious effects — get help

  • Severe irritation, burning or skin breakdown of surrounding healthy skin
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as widespread rash, swelling or difficulty breathing

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other peeling or acne products on the same area can increase irritation

Who should take care

  • Do not use on moles, birthmarks, genital warts, the face, or warts with hair without clinician advice
  • People with diabetes or poor circulation should not self-treat foot warts, corns or calluses and should see a clinician
  • Avoid broken or inflamed skin and protect healthy skin around the area
  • Tell your clinician if you are pregnant before treating large areas

Frequently asked questions

Why should people with diabetes avoid treating foot corns themselves?
Reduced circulation and sensation in the feet raise the risk of injury and infection, so foot problems should be assessed by a clinician or podiatrist.
How long does wart treatment take?
Warts and verrucas often need consistent treatment over many weeks. Follow the product instructions and be patient.
Can I use it on my face?
Lower-strength acne products are made for facial skin, but wart and corn products are too strong for the face. Match the product to the area and follow the label.
It is irritating the skin around the wart — what do I do?
Protect the surrounding healthy skin and apply only to the wart. If irritation is significant, pause and ask your pharmacist.
Is Salicylic acid safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

Related conditions

Related medicines

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