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 there aren't many reports or instances of consumers experiencing serious salicylic acid side effects, one might experience certain untoward effects if salicylic acid is either applied in a wrong manner or used in a highly concentrated form. Before we move on to the side effects of salicylic acid, let me tell you how it helps in treating skin conditions.

How Does Salicylic Acid Work

This colorless beta hydroxy acid works as a very potent exfoliant. This is the reason why most dermatologists recommend the use of salicylic 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 the removal of warts. This organic acid is also used for making anti-dandruff shampoos. Though salicylic acid can surely help those suffering from certain skin ailments, if one doesn't apply it as per the directions, one is most likely to experience certain side effects.

Adverse Effects of Salicylic Acid

Though most of the topical acne drugs containing salicylic acid are well-tolerated, if one doesn't apply it properly, it might cause certain skin problems. Redness, flushing or burning sensation are some of the side effects that might be felt if salicylic acid is applied on infected, broken or irritated skin. Stinging, burning and dryness are some of the common adverse effects of salicylic acid on lips and other parts of facial skin. So, if you are using salicylic acid products on your face, you must exercise caution. Dryness, redness, peeling of the skin and burning sensation are some of the most common side effects associated with usage of products containing salicylic acid. At times, an adverse reaction might occur if one is topically applying salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide formulations at the same time. Adverse 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.

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 during pregnancy, 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 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. One may also experience side effects if one uses 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 contain salicylic acid.

Though salicylic acid is definitely very useful in treating common skin problems, you might end up experiencing untoward 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.