🧴 Salicylic Acid Ointment 3–6%
🔹 1. Prescription / Indication:
Salicylic acid ointment (3–6%) is a topical keratolytic agent used to treat various hyperkeratotic and scaly skin conditions, such as:
- Psoriasis
- Chronic eczema
- Dandruff / seborrheic dermatitis
- Calluses & corns
- Warts (mild cases)
- Acne (occasionally)
It helps soften and remove the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum).
🔹 2. Description:
- Form: Thick, white to off-white ointment
- Texture: Greasy or semi-solid base (often paraffin or petroleum jelly)
- Route: For external use only
- Concentration: 3% to 6% salicylic acid
🔹 3. Advantages:
- Breaks down keratin in thick or scaly skin
- Unclogs pores, helps with blackheads and acne
- Softens and removes plaques in psoriasis or calluses
- Enhances penetration of other topical medications
- Well-tolerated and non-systemic when used appropriately
🔹 4. Nature / Drug Class:
- Class: Keratolytic / Desmolytic agent
- Mechanism: Dissolves intercellular cement, exfoliates outer skin cells
- Type: Non-steroidal topical therapy
🔹 5. Common Packaging:
- Aluminum tubes or plastic jars (usually 15g, 20g, or 30g)
- Label includes: “For external use only” and strength (e.g., Salicylic Acid Ointment 6%)
- May be co-packaged with other ointments (e.g., coal tar, urea)
🔹 6. Storage:
- Store at below 25°C
- Protect from light and heat
- Keep tube tightly closed
- Avoid contamination with water or unclean applicators
🔹 7. Patient Advice / Counseling:
- Apply thinly to affected areas 1–2 times daily, or as directed
- Wash hands before and after use
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, mucous membranes, and broken skin
- Do not apply to large areas, especially in children
- Avoid occlusive dressings unless instructed (may increase absorption)
- Mild irritation or dryness may occur initially
- Stop use if burning, redness, or peeling is excessive
- Safe for short-term use, do not use for >2 weeks without supervision
🔹 8. Purpose / Clinical Use:
| Use | Recommended Strength |
|---|---|
| Mild psoriasis, eczema | 3–5% |
| Thick plaques, calluses | 5–6% |
| Acne (comedones) | ~2% (usually as gel or wash) |
| Wart therapy (initial) | 6% or higher |