How to Use Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that causes the outer layer of skin to shed off. Available in over-the-counter treatments and from a doctor's prescription, salicylic acid treats acne, dandruff, warts and corns. Salicylic acid often comes in the form of an ointment or gel, but is also available in adhesive pads, foams and shampoos. Side effects of salicylic acid include skin irritation, flushing or reddened skin.

Things You'll Need

• Salicylic acid treatment
• Mild soap
• Lotion

Instructions

1. Read the medical labels on your treatment package. Familiarize yourself with the tips and warnings on your packaging label or doctor's prescription. This information will let you know how often to apply the salicylic acid and when to stop treatment.

2. Wash the affected area to remove any dirt, sweat or makeup. Use a mild soap to clean the area where you will apply the salicylic acid treatment. Rinse with warm water. If you use salicylic acid to treat corns or warts, rub a wash cloth or emery board against the corns or warts to buff off any excess skin.

3. Hydrate your skin. Salicylic acid can dry out your skin so you may need to moisturize more often. After you wash your skin, rub some lotion onto the areas where you will apply the salicylic acid. Wait at least five minutes before you put on the salicylic acid treatment.

4. Apply salicylic acid to the affected areas. After you have moisturized your skin, put a thin layer of salicylic acid treatment onto the problem areas. If you use salicylic acid to treat acne, you should apply the treatment at night and rinse it off in the morning.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you use salicylic acid, speak to your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, poor circulation, or are breastfeeding. Your doctor will determine if you can use salicylic acid treatments.

• Avoid using abrasive soaps and cleansers on your skin (such as astringents) when you use salicylic acid. Your skin can become red and irritated. Do not use salicylic acid on sunburned, dry or chapped skin. Do not apply it on open wounds.

References

• Salicylic Acid Information
• Salicylic Acid