Salicylic acid - topical/cutaneous

Salicylic acid is used to treat the following skin conditions:

• acne (also known as pimple)
• dandruff (a skin condition characterised by flaking of skin on the scalp)
• seborrhoeic dermatitis (a skin condition that causes scaly patches, red skin and dandruff on the scalp)
• psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build-up, causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales)
• warts (local growth on the outer layer of the skin)
• calluses and corns (hardened part of the skin due to prolonged exposure to friction or pressure)

This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.

Apply Salicylic acid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a cream, ointment, gel, solution, plaster or patch, foam, shampoo, cleanser or lotion.

If you are using the cream, ointment, gel or solution (no applicator), follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
3. Apply a thin layer gently on the skin or scalp. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
4. Wash your hands after using.
5. Replace the cap of the container.

If you are using the gel as a scalp treatment:

1. Apply directly to the scalp using the applicator.
2. Leave on for 10-20 minutes. May increase treatment time for up to 1 hour as treatment progresses.
3. Rinse off using medicated shampoo or warm water.
4. Wash your hands after using.

If you are using the foam, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Turn the container upside-down and put a small amount of the preparation onto a saucer or other cool surface. Do not place it directly into your hands.
3. Rub this medicine gently on the skin or scalp until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
4. Wash your hands after using.

If you are using the plaster, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Wash the affected area before application. Preferably, soak the area in warm water for 5 minutes. Dry area thoroughly.
3. Select a plaster, cut to fit if necessary and leave the plaster in place on the affected area for 48 hours.
4. Repeat the procedure as directed by your doctor.

If you are using the shampoo, follow these steps:

As a concentrated scalp treatment before bathing:

1. Dry your hair before using the shampoo.
2. Apply gently onto the scalp using the applicator then leave it for 5 minutes, gradually increase treatment time up to 1 hour. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
3. Rinse your hair and scalp. Wash it thoroughly and let your hair dry.
4. Wash your hands after using.

As a medicated shampoo:

1. Wet hair.
2. Apply gently onto the scalp, work into a lather and leave on for several minutes.
3. Rinse your hair and scalp. Wash it thoroughly and let your hair dry.
4. Wash your hands after using.

If you are using the cleanser:

1. Wet face.
2. Apply to hands, add water and work into a lather.
3. Massage face gently.
4. Rinse face thoroughly.

Avoid any contact of this medicine with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Salicylic acid.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• diabetes or poor blood circulation (when used for callus or wart removal)
• broken skin surrounding the application site
• infected or irritated skin

Do not give Salicylic acid to children below 2 years old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.

Do not apply this medicine on moles, birthmarks, genital or facial warts or warts with hair growing from it.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Salicylic acid to a child.

Inform your doctor if you are undergoing UVB phototherapy (a treatment for skin eruptions using artificial ultraviolet light).

If you have psoriasis, certain factors such as dry and cold weather, stress, trauma to the skin, infections, alcohol, and smoking can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Take good care of your skin by keeping it clean, moisturised and free from cuts and infections. Avoid going out during dry and cold weather. Learn to manage your stress, avoid alcohol, and quit smoking. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are also good for your overall health and wellness.

Salicylic acid may cause any of the following side effects: dryness, irritation, discomfort and peeling on the site of application.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using Salicylic acid and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using any of these medicines:

• calcipotriol (medicine for psoriasis)
• other skin medicines

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

Salicylic acid in its various forms can be flammable. Avoid exposure of this medicine to fire and open flames.

Available products of Salicylic acid may vary with its storage requirements. Ask your doctor or pharmacist on how to properly store this medicine.