Salidex

Indications

Salicylic Acid is used on the skin to soften and remove thick or scaly skin. Low-strength products treat acne and blackheads. Ointments, lotions and gels are used for psoriasis, dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis, and thickened, rough skin; they are often combined with Betamethasone for scaly inflamed skin, or with Benzoic Acid for fungal skin infections. Higher-strength products remove warts, corns and calluses.

How It Works

It is a keratolytic, meaning it loosens the bonds between dead skin cells so they shed more easily. This thins hard or scaly skin, unblocks pores, and helps other medicines in the product reach the skin underneath.

Dosage and Administration

Strengths differ widely, so follow the label or the doctor's advice. Acne products (usually 0.5 to 2 percent): apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times a day, starting once a day if your skin is sensitive. Ointments, lotions and scalp products: usually once or twice a day to the affected area only. Wart and corn products: soak and dry the area, protect the surrounding healthy skin, and apply only to the wart or corn, usually once a day, gently rubbing away dead skin between treatments. Wash your hands after use.

Interactions

Using other drying or peeling skin products on the same area (such as Benzoyl Peroxide, Tretinoin, Adapalene or alcohol-based products) increases irritation. When used over large areas, enough may be absorbed to add to the effects of Aspirin and blood thinners such as Warfarin.

Contraindications

Allergy to salicylic acid or other salicylates such as Aspirin. Do not use on broken, infected or inflamed skin. Wart and corn products must not be used on the face, genitals, moles, birthmarks or hairy warts, or by people with diabetes or poor circulation unless a doctor advises.

Side Effects

Dryness, peeling, stinging, burning and redness at the application site. Get urgent medical help for a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), or, after use over large areas, signs of salicylate poisoning such as ringing in the ears, nausea and vomiting, fast deep breathing, dizziness or confusion.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use on small areas is generally considered acceptable. Avoid high-strength products, use over large areas, or long-term use during pregnancy unless a doctor advises it. When breastfeeding, do not apply to the breast area.

Precautions and Warnings

Keep away from the eyes, mouth and inside of the nose; if it gets in the eyes, rinse well with water. Do not use on large areas of skin, under tight dressings, or for long periods, especially in children; avoid in children under 2 unless a doctor advises. Use sunscreen, as treated skin may burn more easily. Some gels and solutions are flammable; keep them away from flames.

Overdose

Swallowing the product or heavy use over large areas can cause salicylate poisoning (ringing in the ears, vomiting, fast breathing, confusion). This is an emergency; go to hospital straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Keratolytic (dermatological agent).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, heat and flames, and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.