Explanation

Salicylic acid (also called Acnisal®) is type of medicine called a keratolytic and it's used to treat acne.

What does salicylic acid do?

Salicylic acid stops acne pimples forming in your skin's pores. It works by softening your skin and causing the cells to replace themselves faster so that your pores stay clear.

What does it look like?

Salicylic acid comes as a white liquid in a bottle. You use it to wash your skin with.

When do I need to use it?

Your doctor will tell you when to use your salicylic acid. You will probably need to use it two or three times a day. You should clean the area of skin where you have acne with warm water, before massaging salicylic acid into your skin. Then, rinse with water and dry.

When you use salicylic acid, take care not to get it in your eye, mouth or nose.

But what if I don't feel like using it?

It's important to use your salicylic acid every day, as often as your doctor told you to. If you don't, it won't work as well as it could and your acne could come back or even get worse.

What should I do if I forget to use my salicylic acid?

If you forget to use your salicylic acid, don't worry. Just use it the next time you would normally wash your skin.

What are the most likely side effects that I might get?

Like all medicines, salicylic acid can cause side effects. You might get some side effects, or you might get none at all. The side effect you are most likely to red, dry or itchy skin where you use the liquid.

If you notice this and it becomes a problem, tell your doctor. He or she may then tell you to use your salicylic acid less often or not use as much.

Is it safe for me to use it?

If you know you are allergic to salicylic acid, you shouldn't start using it. Tell your doctor and he or she will choose something else to help you with your acne.

Is it ok for me to use salicylic acid if I am already using other treatments?

Make sure that you tell your doctor about any other treatments or medicines that you are taking, or have taken recently, including any herbal medicines.

Your skin may become more irritated if you use other products on the same area at the same time as sylicylic acid so check with your doctor first.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any other questions, you can ask your doctor, or chat to other people about salicylic acid in the Medikidz forums and virtual world, Mediland.