Salicylic acid
Also sold as: Duofilm
No prescription neededSkin medicines
Comes as:OintmentGelLotionShampoo
Usual adult dose
Acne: use a 0.5% to 2% wash or gel once or twice a day. Warts: apply the wart paint once a day to the wart only, protecting the skin around it. Thick scaly skin or dandruff: ointment or shampoo as advised.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- dryness
- peeling
- stinging or burning
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe skin irritation
- ringing in the ears or confusion if used on very large areas (salicylate poisoning)
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Children under 2 years
- Diabetes or poor blood flow (do not use wart treatments on the feet)
- Large areas of skin, broken or inflamed skin
- Allergy to aspirin
Interactions
No important interactions are listed in our database. Still tell your doctor or pharmacist everything you take.