Salicylic Acid Side Effects

Salicylic acid is a crystalline organic acid that is obtained from the bark of the willow tree. It has been used for treating various skin disorders since ages. Dermatologists generally recommend the use of salicylic acid for treating common skin problems such as warts, acne, psoriasis, corns and calluses. Its name figures in the list of ingredients of most of the acne skin care products that come in the form of face washes, soaps, face masks and peels. Though many salicylic acid side effects have not been noted, but one might experience certain side effects if it is either applied in a wrong manner or used in a highly concentrated form. Before I move on to the side effects of salicylic acid, let me tell you how it helps in treating skin conditions.

Salicylic Acid: How it Works

This colorless beta hydroxy acid works as a very potent exfoliant. This is the reason why most dermatologists recommend the use ofsalicylic acid for acne control. Acne is primarily caused due to skin pores getting clogged with dead skin cells and sebum. Since salicylic acid helps in shedding off dead skin cells, it helps in preventing future acne outbreaks. It also prevents blackheads and whiteheads from appearing on the skin. Since the dead skin and debris get sloughed off due to the action of salicylic acid peels, creams or lotions, it creates room for healthy skin to surface. When used in a higher concentration, it helps in removing hard skin in the form of corns, calluses or warts. Dermatologists generally suggest the use of salicylic acid for warts removal. This organic acid is also used for making anti-dandruff shampoos. Though salicylic acid can surely help those suffering from certain skin ailments, but if one doesn't apply it as per the directions, one is most likely to experience salicylic acid side effects. Here's some information on salicylic acid side effects on skin.

Salicylic Acid: Side Effects

Though most of the topical acne medications containing salicylic acid are well-tolerated, but if one doesn't apply it properly, it might cause certain skin problems. Topical salicylic acid side effects such as redness, flushing or burning sensation might be felt if it is applied on infected, broken or irritated skin. Stinging, burning and dryness are some of the common salicylic acid side effects on lips and other parts of facial skin. So, if you are using salicylic acid face products, you must exercise caution. Salicylic acid side effects in children as well as adults include dryness, redness and peeling of the skin. Many a times, an adverse reaction might occur if one is topically applying salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide formulations at the same time. Side effects might also be experienced if the medicated product includes a very high concentration of salicylic acid. You must make sure that you apply it only the parts of the skin that are affected by the skin condition. Medicated creams or lotions containing salicylic acid must not be applied on healthy skin. Since salicylic acid can cause other chemicals to penetrate deeper into the skin, it must be used sparingly and that too as per the directions.

Skin irritation, burning sensation, dryness and peeling of the skin are some of the most common wart remover salicylic acid side effects. If taken orally, this organic acid can enter the bloodstream. It is therefore suggested that pregnant women and nursing mothers refrain from taking salicylic acid orally or applying it on large areas of the skin. Though not many studies have been conducted on effects of salicylic acid and pregnancy, but it is believed that if taken orally or applied topically for prolonged periods of time, it might affect the pregnancy adversely. An overdose could cause serious problems. One of the most serious salicylic acid side effects during pregnancy is the risk of miscarriage and birth defects in the newborn. Pregnant women must therefore consult the doctor and follow their advice. Salicylic acid side effects might also be experienced if you use any alcohol-based skin care product while applying creams, lotions or other medicated products containing salicylic acid. Some people might also develop an allergic reaction to this beta hydroxy acid. This could manifest in the form of severe skin irritation, shortness of breath, facial swelling and swelling in the throat. Such people must never use products that have salicylic acid as an ingredient.

Though salicylic acid is definitely very useful in treating common skin problems, but you might end up experiencing salicylic acid side effects if you don't apply it as per the directions. If you have been experiencing any of these salicylic acid side effects, you must discontinue its use and consult a dermatologist immediately.