Salicylic Acid (Topical)
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic (peeling agent). It works by increasing the amount of moisture in the skin and dissolving the substance that causes the skin cells to stick together, making it easier to shed skin cells and unclog pores.
Dosage by Body Weight
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Wash hands before and after application. For warts, soak the area in warm water for 5 minutes before applying. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and broken skin.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Avoid use
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- High risk of systemic absorption and salicylate toxicity in infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Avoid use
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a pediatrician; safety and efficacy are not established for infants.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Apply sparingly to small, localized areas only
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- High risk of irritation and absorption in young children. Do not use on large areas.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Apply thin layer sparingly to limited areas
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily as prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid application to broken, irritated, or infected skin.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Apply thin layer to the affected area
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not apply under tight bandages or occlusive dressings.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Avoid use | Do not use | High risk of systemic absorption and salicylate toxicity in infants. |
| 5-7 kg | Avoid use | Do not use | Consult a pediatrician; safety and efficacy are not established for infants. |
| 8-10 kg | Apply sparingly to small, localized areas only | Use only if prescribed | High risk of irritation and absorption in young children. Do not use on large areas. |
| 11-15 kg | Apply thin layer sparingly to limited areas | 1 to 2 times daily as prescribed | Avoid application to broken, irritated, or infected skin. |
| 16-20 kg | Apply thin layer to the affected area | 1 to 2 times daily | Do not apply under tight bandages or occlusive dressings. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat acne, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, calluses, corns, common warts, and plantar warts by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells.
Generic Name
Salicylic AcidBranded Drug Names
Salicylic Acid (Topical) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.