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salicylic acid

Generic Virasal
Used for Psoriasis, Dry Skin, Hyperkeratosis, Keratosis Pilaris, Warts
Used for Psoriasis, Dry Skin, Hyperkeratosis, Keratosis Pilaris, Warts

Salicylic acid is a topical medication that comes in different strengths to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, warts, psoriasis, and dandruff. It's available in different formulations, such as cleanser, shampoo, body and face wash, and cream. Some salicylic acid products are available by prescription only. OTC topical salicylic acid can typically be used for a limited time during pregnancy, but you should check in with your provider before you start. Side effects of salicylic acid include skin irritation, dry skin, and itching.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on August 25, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Salicylic acid?

What is Salicylic acid used for?

How Salicylic acid works

Salicylic acid is an exfoliating agent. It breaks down the outer layer of your skin and slough off dead skin cells. This helps to treat conditions with abnormally thickened skin, such as calluses, corns, psoriasis, dandruff, and warts. It also can treat acne by helping softening the skin and unclogging pores.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSalex, Salacyn, Salvex, Keralyt, Virasal
Drug ClassKeratolytic agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$277.78(save 89.29%)
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$29.75
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What are the side effects of Salicylic acid?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, skin rash, swelling
  • Reye's syndrome: diarrhea, vomiting, unusually low energy, loss of consciousness, seizure

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common or rare

Skin irritation not present before use of this medicine (moderate or severe)

Incidence not known

Difficult breathing

dryness and peeling of skin

fainting

hives or itching

redness of the skin

swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

tightness in the throat

unusually warm skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Confusion

diarrhea

dizziness

fast or deep breathing

headache (severe or continuing)

hearing loss

lightheadedness

nausea

rapid breathing

ringing or buzzing in the ears (continuing)

severe drowsiness

stomach pain

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Skin irritation not present before use of this medicine (mild)

stinging

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Salicylic acid

thumbs-up

Pros

Convenient to use because it’s available in many different forms

Generally well-tolerated and works well at treating a variety of skin conditions

Available over the counter

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause side effects, such as dryness, peeling, and irritation of the skin

Might need to use for a long time for certain conditions (e.g., warts)

Might not work as well as other acne medications (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids)

Higher strengths are only available by prescription

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Salicylic acid

pharmacist

  • Wash and dry the affected areas before applying salicylic acid. Wash your hands after use, unless you're applying it to your hands.

    • Apply salicylic acid only on your skin. Avoid contact with other areas of your body, including your eyes, mouth, or genitals, to prevent irritation.

      • For some conditions such as acne, to avoid dryness and skin irritation, you can start applying salicylic acid to the affected area once a day. If you tolerate the medication, you can eventually work your way up and apply it to your skin 3 times a day. If dryness and peeling occur and are bothersome, then apply salicylic acid less often, like every other day.

        • Salicylic acid can cause rare but serious allergic reactions. Stop using salicylic acid if you have throat tightness, trouble breathing, swelling of your eyes, lips, or tongue, or get hives or itching.

          • Salicylic acid is flammable, meaning it can easily catch on fire. Keep the medication away from fires or flames to protect yourself and others around you. Store the medication with the cap on tight.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Salicylic acid

            Can you use salicylic acid with retinol?
            It's best to avoid using salicylic acid and retinol together unless your provider or dermatologist gives you specific direction to do so. Retinol is topical form of vitamin A that's found in many anti-aging OTC skin care products. Both salicylic acid and retinol are known to cause skin irritation and using these products together can worsen skin-related side effects, such as peeling and dry skin.
            Can you use benzoyl peroxide with salicylic acid?
            Like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide is a topical acne medication. While it's possible to use benzoyl peroxide together with salicylic acid, you should check with your skin provider before doing so. This is because using both products together can worsen side effects, such as dry skin and skin irritation. If you do use both products, the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends to start out with one acne treatment, and if you don't see improvement after 4-6 weeks you can add on a different medication. Your provider can help you decide the best acne treatment options for you.
            Is salicylic acid good for acne?
            Salicylic acid isn't a first-choice option for acne because it hasn't been as well-studied as other treatment options. But providers might still recommend it for certain types of acne. Let your provider know if you're looking for medications for acne and they can help you come up with the best treatment plan depending the cause and symptoms.
            Is salicylic acid safe during pregnancy?
            Salicylic acid hasn't been well-studied in human pregnancy. But the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid (which ranges from salicylic acid 0.5% to 2%) can be used during pregnancy. To be safe, your provider might only recommend it for a short period of time. Check in with your healthcare provider before using salicylic acid during pregnancy.
            Is salicylic acid a BHA?
            Yes, salicylic acid is classified under a group of ingredients known as beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). BHAs help remove dead skin cells and can improve skin texture.
            How long does salicylic acid take to work?
            Depending on the dosage form and condition you are treating, salicylic acid can take many weeks or months to work, but you might see improvements sooner. For acne, it could take 4 to 6 weeks to see improvement in your skin. If you're treating a wart, it could take up to 12 weeks to cure it with salicylic acid. If you're not sure how long you should use salicylic acid, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
            How often should you use salicylic acid?
            The amount of time you should use salicylic acid depends on what you're using it for and which product you're using. Since there are many different products that contain salicylic acid, make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging or from your provider. For some conditions like acne, it's usually recommended to use salicylic acid 1-3 times a day. But for other conditions, like dandruff, you might use the shampoo formula at least twice a week. Keep in mind that skin dryness and irritation can occur with some forms, and these side effects can worsen if you use salicylic acid too often. If you start experiencing bothersome side effects, check the product label to see if you should be using it less often or contact your provider.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Salicylic acid?

            Salicylic acid can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Infection in people with diabetes or poor blood flow

            • Risk factors: History of diabetes | Conditions with poor blood flow

              Because salicylic acid works by breaking down the skin, it can cause dry skin, which can crack more easily. This can lead to infections, especially in people with diabetes or conditions causing poor blood flow. People with diabetes are more likely to not feel when they have an open cut. In addition, diabetes or poor blood flow can cause longer healing times, which could also lead to an infection. If you have diabetes or a condition with poor blood flow, talk to your provider before using salicylic acid to make sure it is safe for you.

              risk-warning

              Brain and liver damage in children or teenagers (Reye's syndrome)

              • Risk factors: Children or teenagers with viral infections

                Using salicylic acid in children or teenagers could lead to a rare, life-threatening condition called Reye's syndrome where liver damage and brain swelling occur. Let your provider know if your child experiences diarrhea, vomiting, or unusually low energy. Get medical help right away if your child experiences confusion, loss of consciousness, or a seizure. The risk is higher in children and teenagers who have viral infections and the use of salicylic acid should be avoided.

                risk-warning

                Higher levels of salicylate (salicylate toxicity)

                • Risk factors: History of kidney or liver problems | Children | Higher doses of salicylic acid

                  It's important to only use salicylic acid in the affected areas. Applying this medication over larger areas of your skin can cause your body to absorb too much of the medication. This can lead to a life-threatening side effect called salicylate toxicity. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of hearing, ringing in the ears, tiredness, fast breathing, diarrhea, and mental health conditions. Let your provider know if you have any of these symptoms above after taking salicylic acid.

                  dosage

                  Salicylic acid dosage forms

                  The average cost for 1 applicator of 10ml of 27.5% of Salicylic acid is $56.17 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 79.78% off the average retail price of $277.78.
                  applicator
                  Applicator
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  10ml of 26%1 applicator$94.87$94.87
                  10ml of 27.5%1 applicator$56.17$56.17
                  10ml of 28.5%1 applicator$50.92$50.92
                  bottle of cream
                  Bottle of cream
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  400g of 6%1 bottle$44.80$44.80
                  454g of 6%1 bottle$47.88$47.88
                  bottle of lotion
                  Bottle of lotion
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  400g of 6%1 bottle$33.60$33.60
                  414ml of 6%1 bottle$34.01$34.01
                  473ml of 6%1 bottle$35.72$35.72
                  bottle of shampoo
                  Bottle of shampoo
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  177ml of 6%1 bottle$29.75$29.75
                  can of foam
                  Can of foam
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  70g of 6%1 can$48.40$48.40
                  200g of 6%1 can$86.83$86.83
                  kit
                  Kit
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  454g of 6%1 kit$55.12$55.12
                  tube of gel
                  Tube of gel
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  40g of 6%1 tube$49.06$49.06
                  tube of ointment
                  Tube of ointment
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  30g of 3%1 tube$616.68$616.68

                  Typical dosing for Salicylic acid

                  Each salicylic acid product has specific instructions for use. To make sure you’re using salicylic acid correctly, refer to the product’s administration directions and talk to your provider or pharmacist. Some examples include:

                  Acne:

                  • The typical dose is to apply a thin layer of salicylic acid cream, gel, lotion, ointment, pads, soap, or topical solution to the affected areas 1 to 3 times a day.

                  Insect bites, burns, and fungal infections:

                  • The typical dose is to apply a thin layer of salicylic acid ointment to the affected area 2 times a day for up to 10 days.

                  Calluses and corns:

                  • The typical dose is to apply salicylic acid plaster to the affected areas every 2 days for up to 14 days until the callus or corn is removed.

                  • If using salicylic acid topical solution, apply it to the affected areas 1 to 2 times a day as needed for up to 14 days until the callus or corn is removed.

                  Dandruff:

                  • The typical dose is to apply salicylic acid shampoo on your scalp and rinse two times a week.

                  • If using salicylic acid lotion, apply it to your scalp 1 to 2 times a day.

                  Warts:

                  • The typical dose is to apply salicylic acid gel or topical solution to the affected area 1 to 2 times a day as needed for up to 12 weeks until the wart is removed.

                  • If using salicylic acid plaster, apply every 2 days as needed to the affected area for up to 12 weeks until the wart is removed.

                  Ichthyosis vulgaris and pityriasis ruba pilaris:

                  • The typical dose is to apply salicylic acid foam 2 times a day to the affected areas.

                  Psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis:

                  • The typical dose is to apply salicylic acid gel, cream, or ointment to the affected areas 1 to 4 times a day.

                  • If using salicylic acid shampoo, apply on the scalp and rinse twice a week.

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Salicylic acid and other drugs

                  Salicylic acid may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Salicylic acid. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                  contraindications-icon

                  Salicylic acid contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Salicylic acid will not be safe for you to take.

                  • Children under 2 years of age

                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Salicylic acid?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Salicylic acid. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Salicylic acid
                  Used for:
                  $29.75 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Benzoyl peroxide
                  Used for:

                  • Acne

                  $12.11 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Ketoconazole (Nizoral A-D)
                  Used for:

                  • Tinea versicolor (prescription product)

                  • Dandruff (over-the-counter product)

                  $12.91 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Salicylic acid?

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Acella Pharmaceuticals, LLC. (2024). Salicylic acid- salicylic acid aerosol, foam [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Allure Labs, Inc. (2017). Acne cleanser w/ salicylic acid- salicylic acid cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Ichthyosis vulgaris: Diagnosis and treatment.

                  View All References (14)

                  American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). 9 things to try when acne won’t clear.

                  American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). Adult acne treatment dermatologists recommend.

                  American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2022). Skin conditions during pregnancy: Frequently asked questions.

                  Arif, T. (2015). Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: A comprehensive review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.

                  Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. (2024). Pityriasis rubra pilaris.

                  InformedHealth.org. (2022). Chronic wounds: Overview. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care.

                  Johnson and Johnson Consumer Inc. (2023). Neutrogena scalp therapy anti-dandruff daily control- salicylic acid shampoo [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  KAO USA. (2023). Biore- salicyclic acid liquid [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Madan, R. K., et al. (2013). A review of toxicity from topical salicylic acid preparations. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

                  Mund, M. E., et al. (2016). Acetylsalicylic acid as a potential pediatric health hazard: Legislative aspects concerning accidental intoxications in the European Union. Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology.

                  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Food and Drug Administration. (2011). Guidance for industry: Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use — Revision of labeling and classification of benzoyl peroxide as safe and effective.

                  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). FDA drug safety communication: FDA warns of rare but serious hypersensitivity reactions with certain over-the-counter topical acne products.

                  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Beta hydroxy acids.

                  Zaenglein, A. L. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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