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Jai Ganesh

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Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid

Gist

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) widely used in skincare for its keratolytic (exfoliating) properties, effectively treating acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and dandruff by penetrating pores and dissolving dead skin cells. It is commonly found in 0.5%–2% concentrations for daily use but can also treat warts and psoriasis in higher concentrations.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that deeply exfoliates skin, penetrates pores to dissolve excess oil (sebum), and removes dead skin cells. It is highly effective at treating and preventing acne, including blackheads and whiteheads, while reducing inflammation and smoothing skin texture.

Summary

Salicylic acid is an organic compound with the formula C7H6O3. A colorless (or white), bitter-tasting solid, it is a precursor to and a metabolite of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). It is a plant hormone, and has been listed by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory as an experimental teratogen. The name is from Latin salix for willow tree, from which it was initially identified and derived. It is an ingredient in some anti-acne products. Salts and esters of salicylic acid are known as salicylates.

Safety

In excess, salicylates have toxic effects, which can be fatal. Toxicity is most often due to oral overdose.

Cosmetic applications of the drug pose no significant risk. Even in a worst-case use scenario in which one was using multiple salicylic acid-containing topical products, the aggregate plasma concentration of salicylic acid was well below what was permissible for acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). Since oral aspirin (which produces much higher salicylic acid plasma concentrations than dermal salicylic acid applications) poses no significant adverse pregnancy outcomes in terms of frequency of stillbirth, birth defects or developmental delay, use of salicylic acid containing cosmetics is safe for pregnant women. Salicylic acid is present in most fruits and vegetables as for example in greatest quantities in berries and in beverages like tea.

In one documented case, a patient applied extreme levels of salicyate ointment topically (40% ointment, over 41% of the total skin surface), and subsequently received hemodialysis to reduce blood salicylate concentration.

Details

The compound treats treats many skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, dandruff, and warts. It works by decreasing inflammation. It also promotes skin cell turnover. This prevents clogged pores and loosens dry, scaly skin, making it easier to remove. It belongs to a group of medications called salicylates. Do not use this medication on sensitive areas of the body.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

* Infection especially a viral infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes
* Kidney disease
* Liver disease
* An unusual or allergic reaction to salicylic acid, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
* Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
* Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

* Medications that change urine pH, such as ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and others
* Medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
* Methotrexate
* Pyrazinamide
* Some medications for diabetes
* Some medications for gout
* Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication. This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

* Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
* Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

* Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Avoid exposure to extreme heat.

Get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

* Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
* If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other  unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

Additional Information

Salicylic Acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) and phenolic acid with a chemical formula C7H6O3. It is a BHA found as a natural compound in plants. It functions as a plant hormone. This lipophilic monohydroxybenzoic acid is a derivative of salicin metabolism. It is a crystalline organic carboxylic acid with keratolytic, bacteriostatic and fungicidal properties. It is poisonous when consumed in large. It can be used as an antiseptic and as a food preservative when consumed in small quantities. It consists of a carboxyl group COOH. It is odourless and has no colour.

Properties of Salicylic Acid – C7H6O3

C7H6O3  :  Salicylic Acid
Molecular Weight/ Molar Mass  :  138.121 g/mol
Density  :  1.44 g/Cubic cm
Boiling Point  :  211 °C
Melting Point  :  158.6 °C

Uses (Salicylic Acid)

* It is used in toothpaste as an antiseptic.
* In the medical field, it is used to remove the outer layer of the skin.
* It is used in the treatment of acne, dandruff, and wrath.
* It is used as a preservative.
* It is used in the production of drugs like aspirin.
* It is used as a balm to reduce muscle and joint pain.
* It is used to relieve pain caused by mouth ulcers.
* It is used as a key additive in skin care products.

Frequently Asked Questions : FAQs

Q1. What are the uses of salicylic acid?
A1: Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic (it serves as a peeling agent). Salicylic acid facilitates and makes the outer layer of the skin shed. The topical salicylic acid (for the skin) is used to treat acne, dandruff, seborrhea, or psoriasis and to remove cotton, calluses, and warts. Salicylic acid is found in many daily-use products.

Q2: What does salicylic acid do to your skin?
A2: Salicylic acid works by loosening and breaking apart desmosomes in the outer layers of the skin, which are attachments between cells. This action helps the skin to exfoliate and the pores to unclog. Salicylic acid is capable of reducing sebum secretion, which is another way to help reduce acne.

Q3: Is salicylic acid safe?
A3: Although the use of low-concentration household salicylic acid products is usually considered safe, salicylic acid can cause mild chemical burns at high concentrations. These chemicals can also cause dangerous intoxication if ingested.

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