Salicylic Acid: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Salicylic Acid is a keratolytic skin treatment. It is used for acne, warts, corns and calluses, dandruff, psoriasis and thick scaly skin. In Pakistan it is available as gel, solution and lotion, made by 5 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Salicylic Acid works
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, which means it loosens the bonds holding dead skin cells together so they shed more easily. This softens hard, thickened skin such as warts and corns, removes scales and helps unclog pores in acne. It also has mild anti-inflammatory properties.
What is Salicylic Acid used for?
Salicylic Acid products are used to soften and remove thickened or scaly skin. Depending on the strength and form, they are used for acne and blackheads, common and plantar warts, corns and calluses, dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp, and scaly conditions such as psoriasis. Each product is made for a specific purpose, so choose the one suited to your problem and follow the pack instructions.
Side effects of Salicylic Acid
With Salicylic Acid, mild skin reactions are the most common side effects. These include:
- Dryness
- Peeling
- Mild stinging or burning
- Redness
- Irritation of surrounding healthy skin
Stop using it and seek help if you develop severe redness, blistering or swelling, or symptoms such as ringing in the ears, nausea, rapid breathing or confusion after using it on large areas.
Precautions and warnings
- Salicylic Acid is for external use only; keep it away from the eyes, mouth and broken or inflamed skin.
- Do not use strong wart or corn treatments if you have diabetes or poor circulation, and do not use them on the face, moles or birthmarks.
- Avoid applying it over large areas or for long periods, especially in children, as it can be absorbed through the skin.
- Protect the healthy skin around a wart or corn, and stop if irritation becomes severe.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or allergic to aspirin, check with a pharmacist before use.
Frequently asked questions about Salicylic Acid
What is the price of Salicylic Acid in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Salicylic Acid products currently in stock range from Rs 260 to Rs 650 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Gorgeous Warts Remover at Rs 260. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Salicylic Acid are available in Pakistan?
Salicylic Acid is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Movelat (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Duofilm (Stiefel Labroatories Pak Ltd), Acnex (Rafaq), Gorgeous and Cosalic (Crystolite Pharmaceutical).Do I need a prescription for Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.
Can Salicylic Acid be used during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or allergic to aspirin, check with a pharmacist before use.
Are all Salicylic Acid brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Salicylic Acid in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Salicylic Acid brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 6 products containing Salicylic Acid from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
