Category- Allopathy
Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To treat acne (pimples, blackheads, whiteheads) 2. To treat oily skin with clogged pores 3. To treat mild dandruff or flaky scalp 4. To treat small hard bumps or patches on the skin which is usually painful or rough. 5. To treat psoriasis (scaly skin patches) 6. To treat redness and swelling in the skin |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Mild burning or stinging 2. Redness or irritation 3. Dryness or peeling of skin |
| Additional Information | 1. Wash and dry the affected area before applying. 2. Apply a thin layer once or twice daily as advised. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | This medicine is meant to be used on the skin only. |
Salicylic Acid Uses
Salicylic Acid 2% is an Keratolytic medicine it helps treat skin problems caused by fungi and yeast. It is useful for the following:
- Acne (pimples, blackheads, whiteheads)
- Oily skin with clogged pores
- Mild dandruff or flaky scalp
- Small hard bumps or patches on the skin that can be painful or rough.
- Scaly skin patches (Psoriasis)
Directions for use
- Wash and dry the affected area before applying.
- Apply a thin layer once or twice daily as advised.
Salicylic Acid side effects
More Common
- Mild burning or stinging
- Redness or irritation
- Dryness or peeling of skin
Less Common
- Severe irritation or rash
- Swelling or itching that does not go away
- Allergic reaction (trouble breathing, severe redness)
How Salicylic Acid works
Salicylic acid works by gently removing the top layer of dead skin cells. It opens clogged pores, reduces pimples and blackheads, and helps get rid of rough, thick, or scaly patches on the skin. By keeping the skin clear and smooth, it prevents new spots from forming and improves the overall health of your skin.
Safety Measures and Warning
Allergy/Hypersensitivity
People allergic to salicylic acid or aspirin, because it can cause severe rash, swelling, or allergic reactions — always check with a doctor before use.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, because safety is not fully known, use only if a doctor recommends it.
People with broken or infected skin
People with broken, raw, or infected skin, because it can sting, worsen irritation, or delay healing avoid until the skin heals and consult a doctor.
Young children (under 12 years)
Their skin is delicate and may irritate easily or absorb too much medicine, use only under doctor supervision.
Salicylic Acid Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking Salicylic Acid with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases and it could be fatal:
Salicylic Acid Interaction with Food Product
Salicylic acid face wash is used only on the skin, so it does not interact with food. You can eat and drink normally while using it.
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children
Salicylic Acid Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
2-hydroxybenzoic acid
Intake routine/cycle
Daily dose
Take Salicylic Acid exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Overdose
Do not use more than the recommended amount of Salicylic Acid on your skin, as overuse may cause irritation, redness, or burning. There are no known serious reactions if used more than twice daily, but stop using it and consult a doctor if you notice severe irritation or discomfort.
Salicylic Acid Summary
Salicylic Acid 2% face wash is a gentle cleanser used to treat acne, blackheads, oily skin, and rough or flaky patches. It works by softening and peeling the top layer of skin and unclogging pores, which helps prevent pimples and makes the skin smoother. To use, wet your face, apply a small amount, gently massage for 30–60 seconds, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry. Use once or twice daily as advised by your doctor, and follow with a mild moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Some people may experience mild redness, dryness, or irritation, which usually goes away. Avoid using it if you are allergic to salicylic acid, have broken or infected skin, are a young child, or are pregnant/breastfeeding without doctor advice. There are no food interactions, so normal diet does not affect its action. Regular use helps clear acne, smooth the skin, and prevent new pimples from forming.
FAQ’s
What is Salicylic Acid 2% face wash used for?
It is used to treat pimples, blackheads, and oily skin. It also helps remove rough or flaky skin and keeps the face clean.
Is Salicylic Acid 2% face wash good for the skin?
Yes, it is good for oily or acne-prone skin. It helps clean pores, reduce pimples and blackheads, and remove rough or flaky skin, making the face smoother and healthier.
How should I use Salicylic Acid 2% face wash?
Wet your face, apply a small amount of Salicylic Acid 2% face wash, and gently massage for 30–60 seconds. Rinse well and pat dry. Use once or twice daily as advised. You can apply a gentle moisturizer afterward. Avoid using other strong acne products unless your doctor says so.
What is the price of salicylic acid face wash?
Salicylic Acid face wash price at an online pharmacy like SayaCare is about 129 rupees, at SayaCare we provide test report with each medicine. Also, at SayaCare we provide you with up to 80% less cost than the market.
Reference
- Salicylic acid 1% wash: Uses, Side Effects, Price | Generic | SayaCare [Internet]. Sayacare.in. 2025 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from
- PubChem. Salicylic acid [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from
- 1mg.com. Salicylic Acid: View Uses, Side Effects and Medicines | 1mg [Internet]. 1mg. 2025 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from
- Cleveland Clinic. Salicylic acid topical gel, cream, lotion, solution [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2024. Available from
- Salicylic acid [Internet]. go.drugbank.com. Available from
Authors
Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.