salicylic acid acne

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is commonly used in the treatment of acne. It works by exfoliating the skin and penetrating the hair follicles, helping to unclog pores and prevent the formation of acne lesions. 

Specifically, salicylic acid: 

• Exfoliates the skin: salicylic acid penetrates the top layer of the skin and exfoliates dead skin cells, which can clog pores and contribute to the formation of acne. 
• Unclogs pores: salicylic acid can penetrate the hair follicles and break down the excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria that can contribute to the formation of acne. 
• Reduces inflammation: salicylic acid reduces acne’s inflammation. 

salicylic acid is most effective for treating non-inflammatory acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads. It may also be effective for treating mild to moderate inflammatory acne. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not Defined 

Desquamation 

Burning or stinging of the skin

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

salicylic acid is generally considered safe for topical use, but there are some contraindications and cautions to keep in mind: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals who are allergic or hypersensitive to salicylic acid or other aspirin-like drugs should not use salicylic acid. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: salicylic acid should be used cautiously during pregnancy and breastfeeding. High doses of salicylic acid can cross the placenta and may cause harm to the fetus. It is unknown whether salicylic acid is excreted in breast milk, so it is best to avoid using it during breastfeeding. 
• Skin irritation: salicylic acid can cause skin irritation, mainly if used in high concentrations or applied too frequently. Individuals with sensitive skin or those using other exfoliating or irritant products should use salicylic acid with caution. 
• Other medical conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or poor circulation, should use salicylic acid cautiously, as it may increase the risk of skin damage or slow the healing process. 
• Interactions with other medications: salicylic acid may interact with other medications, such as blood thinners or diuretics. So, you must consult a healthcare provider before using salicylic acid if taking other medications. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Category C 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: No evidence of risk to the fetus is found in animal reproduction studies, and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for a human product; Pregnant women must take care of the potential risks. 
• Category D: There is adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms. However, despite potential dangers may be used only in emergencies for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. The drug is not for pregnant women. 
• Category N: No data for the drug under this category is available. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and penetrates the hair follicles, helping to unclog pores and prevent the formation of acne lesions. It has a keratolytic effect, which breaks down the bonds between skin cells, allowing them to shed more quickly. This exfoliation process helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. 

In addition to its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects. It reduces inflammation and redness associated with acne, making it an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne. 

salicylic acid is available in various formulations, including gels, creams, lotions, and pads. It is typically used topically and applied directly to the affected skin area. It is generally well-tolerated, but some may experience mild irritation or dryness. 

salicylic acid also treats other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and warts. It is available over the counter in lower concentrations (up to 2%) and higher concentrations (up to 30%) by prescription. It is important to use salicylic acid products as directed and to avoid using them in combination with other exfoliating or irritant products.Top of Form 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of salicylic acid involves its action on the skin to exfoliate the surface and penetrate the hair follicles. salicylic acid works as a keratolytic agent by breaking down the stratum corneum’s intercellular matrix, the skin’s outermost layer. This process results in the shedding of dead skin cells, which helps to unclog pores and prevent the formation of acne lesions. 

salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects due to its ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. These enzymes play a vital role in synthesizing prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation. salicylic acid can reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne by inhibiting COX enzymes. 

In addition to its effects on acne, salicylic acid treats other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and warts. In these conditions, salicylic acid works by softening and breaking down the keratin that forms the scales and lesions associated with these conditions. 

The pharmacodynamics of salicylic acid also depends on the concentration and formulation of the product used. Lower concentrations of salicylic acid (up to 2%) are available over the counter and are typically used for mild acne or as a preventative measure. Higher concentrations (up to 30%) are available by prescription and are used for more severe acne or other skin conditions.Bottom of Form 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The drug is topically absorbed 

Distribution 

The Vd is 170 ml/kg of the body weight 

Metabolism 

The drug is metabolized extensively 

Elimination and Excretion 

The drug is excreted 10% in the form of urine 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

salicylic acid can be administered orally or topically, depending on the treated condition. 

Oral administration: salicylic acid is often administered orally in tablets or capsules. The oral route of administration allows for systemic absorption of the drug, which can relieve conditions such as pain, fever, and inflammation. 

Topical administration: salicylic acid is also commonly used topically in creams, lotions, or gels. The topical route of administration allows for local application of the drug to the affected area, which can help treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and warts. Topical application can also reduce systemic absorption and potential side effects. 

Overdose or misuse of salicylic acid can result in serious side effects and complications. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: salicylic acid 

Pronounced: sa-Liy-ciy-lik AS-id 

Why do we use salicylic acid? 

salicylic acid treats acne vulgaris.