Salicylic Acid Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 28, 2025.

Applies to salicylic acid topical: topical bandage, topical cream, topical foam, topical gel/jelly, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical ointment, topical pad, topical patch extended release, topical shampoo, topical soap, topical solution, topical spray.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if it become worse, check with your doctor.

When using salicylic acid, do not use any of the following preparations on the same affected area as this medicine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor:

• Abrasive soaps or cleansers
• Alcohol-containing preparations
• Any other topical acne preparation or preparation containing a peeling agent (eg, benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, sulfur, or tretinoin [vitamin A acid])
• Cosmetics or soaps that dry the skin
• Medicated cosmetics
• Other topical medicine for the skin

To use any of the above preparations on the same affected area as salicylic acid may cause severe irritation of the skin.

This medicine may cause a serious condition called salicylate toxicity. This is more likely to occur especially in children, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease. Check with your doctor right away if you have nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of hearing, tinnitus, lethargy hyperpnea, diarrhea, and psychic disturbances.

Certain over-the-counter (OTC) acne products may cause rare and life-threatening allergic reactions. Check with your doctor right away if you have hives, itching, trouble breathing, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or tongue, tightness in the throat, or feeling faint while using these products.

Do not use an OTC acne product again if you have developed a serious allergic reaction from it.

Other side effects

Some side effects of salicylic acid topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, salicylic acid topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking salicylic acid topical:

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking salicylic acid topical:

Symptoms of overdose

• confusion
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• fast or deep breathing
• headache (severe or continuing)
• hearing loss
• lightheadedness
• nausea
• rapid breathing
• ringing or buzzing in the ears (continuing)
• severe drowsiness
• stomach pain
• vomiting

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• Does duct tape really remove warts?

Further information

Salicylic acid topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer