- Salicylic acid is an active ingredient in many over the counter facial cleansers. Brands such as Noxema, Neutrogena and Avon's Clearskin line all distribute products with salicylic acid.
- If a product contains salicylic acid it may be listed on the front of the packaging or separate from the other ingredients. The amount of salicylic acid contained in a product can range from 0.5% to 2%.
- Many over the counter products in the form of creams, lotions and liquids that contain salicylic acid are for the treatment of acne. It may also be an ingredient on a facial pad or cloth. However, since acne can develop on parts of your body other than your face, there are also products to treat acne on other areas such as your back and shoulders. Other uses include the treatment of warts, corns, calluses and psoriasis.
- Salicylic acid is particularly effective in treating acne because it unclogs your pores. Regular use of products with salicylic acid may prevent the occurrence or severity of future breakouts. However, topical treatments may take 8 weeks before you notice a difference in your skin.Salicylic acid also aids in softening and loosening unwanted skin. This aids in the removal of warts, corns and calluses. In addition, it smooths the skin of patients with psoriasis.
- There are a few side effects that may occur if you apply a substance with salicylic acid to your skin. The most common side effects are redness and dry skin. However, reducing the frequency of applications to the irritated skin may reduce or eliminate these symptoms.
- Over the counter products that include salicylic acid can be applied directly to the affected area. If your condition does not respond significantly or at all to over the counter topical treatments, you should contact your doctor. Your doctor may provide you with a prescription for a medication that may be more suitable for your condition.
