urea / salicylic acid
Urea/salicylic acid is a combination of two medications that are used to help promote healing of the skin and soften skin and nails. It's available with a prescription and over the counter (OTC). Urea/salicylic acid is typically applied to the skin or nails twice a day. Side effects include temporary stinging, burning, and irritation where it's applied.
What is Urea/salicylic acid?
What is Urea/salicylic acid used for?
- Abnormally thick or tough skin or nails (hyperkeratosis)
How Urea/salicylic acid works
Urea/salicylic acid is a combination of two medications.
- Urea is an emollient. It helps loosen the outer layers of the skin and softens the skin and nails.
- Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent, meaning it breaks down the outer layer of your skin. This helps to treat conditions with abnormally thickened skin, such as calluses, corns, psoriasis, and eczema.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream, Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair, Ebanel, Ellocy |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Emollient / Keratolytic agent |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | Lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription or over-the-counter |
Side effects of Urea/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
- Stinging
- Burning
- Itching
- Skin irritation
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Pros and cons of Urea/salicylic acid
Pros
- Can apply directly to the affected area(s)
- Available in a cream and ointment
- Available as a lower-cost generic
Cons
- Must avoid mucous membranes (e.g., eyes, lips, inside the nose)
- Can cause stinging, burning, and itching where applied
- Unknown if safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding
Pharmacist tips for Urea/salicylic acid
- Urea/salicylic acid works best if you use it consistently. To get the most benefit from the medication, make sure to use it for as long as your provider tells you to.
- Wash your hands after using urea/salicylic acid (unless you're applying it to your hands or fingernails). This will help you avoid getting it into your eyes.
- If you develop a skin rash, any redness or irritation, or your condition becomes worse, stop using urea/salicylic acid and contact your healthcare provider.
- Store urea/salicylic acid at room temperature and away from children and pets. If a child accidentally swallows urea/salicylic acid, contact a Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Risks and warnings for Urea/salicylic acid
Urea/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.
For use on the skin or nails only
Make sure to apply urea/salicylic acid to the affected area(s) on your skin or nails only. Avoid getting it in your eyes, on your lips, or on other mucous membranes (e.g., inside of your nose, mouth, or vagina). This can lead to irritation and other side effects.
Skin irritation
Urea/salicylic acid can sometimes cause stinging, burning, dryness, and irritation where you apply it. If you notice a rash, redness, or irritation, contact your provider. They can help you decide if you should still use this medication.
Urea/salicylic acid dosage
Jar of cream| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 227g of 39.5%/2% | 1 jar | $3,380.41 | $3,380.41 |
Typical dosage for Urea/salicylic acid
In general, apply to the affected area(s) of skin or nails twice per day, or as directed by your provider or by the product labeling. If you're applying it to the skin, rub it in until it's completely absorbed.
How much does Urea/salicylic acid cost?
$3,380.41
