Salicylic Acid Topical Dosage
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 17, 2024.
Applies to the following strengths: 2%; 6%; 1.8%; 3%; 0.5%; 17%; 40%; 13.6%; 1%; 15%; 16.7%; 12%; 6% with cleanser; 27.5%; 26%; 28.5%; 28%; 4%; 17.6%; 20%; 5.9%
Usual Adult Dose for:
Usual Pediatric Dose for:
Additional dosage information:
Usual Adult Dose for Acne
Salicylic acid topical 1% pad:
Cleanse affected area. Apply 2 to 3 times daily. If dryness occurs, reduce to every other or once a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Dermatological Disorders
Salicylic acid topical 16.7% liquid:
Wash and dry area thoroughly. Apply enough to cover each wart 1 to 2 times daily.
Salicylic acid 3% topical soap:
Apply to affect areas at least twice weekly. Leave lather on scalp or skin for two minutes then rinse. Repeat if necessary.
Salicylic acid topical 6% cream:
Apply to affected area once daily. Hydrate area for 5 minutes prior to application if possible. Occlude the area at night. Wash off in morning.
Salicylic acid topical 6% lotion:
Apply to affected area once daily. Hydrate area for 5 minutes prior to application if possible. Occlude the area at night. Wash off in morning.
Salicylic acid topical 6% foam:
Apply to affected area once daily at bedtime. Hydrate area for 5 minutes prior to application if possible. Occlude the area after application. Wash off in morning.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne
Salicylic acid topical 1% pad:
12 years or older: Cleanse affected area. Apply 2 to 3 times daily. If dryness occurs, reduce to every other or once a day.
Renal Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Liver Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Dialysis
Data not available
Frequently asked questions
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Patient resources
- Salicylic acid topical drug information
- Salicylic acid (Advanced Reading)
- Salicylic Acid (Psoriasis or Seborrheic Dermatitis)
- Salicylic Acid Cream and Lotion (Keratoses)
- Salicylic Acid Cream, Gel, Liquid, and Lotion (Acne)
Other brands
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Professional resources
- Salicylic Acid monograph
- Salicylic Acid (FDA)
- Salicylic Acid Foam (FDA)
- Salicylic Acid Gel (FDA)
- Salicylic Acid Liquid (FDA)
Other brands
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Further information
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