Salicylic Acid Ointment 12% is a highly concentrated professional-strength exfoliating treatment designed to dissolve tough, thickened, or rough skin. At 12%, this is far stronger than the 0.5–2% salicylic acid found in typical acne face washes and spot treatments. It is specifically formulated for conditions involving excessive buildup of dead skin cells, including stubborn calluses, corns, warts, psoriasis plaques, severe acne, and rough patches on the body.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works by softening and dissolving the protein bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This allows thickened, rough, or blocked skin to shed more easily, revealing smoother skin underneath and keeping pores clear at a deeper level than surface-level scrubs can achieve.
| Dissolves Rough Skin | Softens and removes calluses, corns, and thick patches that physical scrubs cannot address. |
| Deep Pore Clearing | Penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil and dead cell buildup. Effective for stubborn blackheads and body acne. |
| Psoriasis & Scaling | Helps soften and remove psoriatic plaques and scaly patches by breaking down excess skin cell buildup. |
| Wart Treatment | Dissolves the thickened skin of warts, allowing them to be removed over several weeks of consistent application. |
| Professional Strength | 12% concentration is much stronger than OTC salicylic acid products (typically 0.5–2%). |
| Oil-Soluble | Unlike water-based AHAs, salicylic acid penetrates into oily pores — making it ideal for acne-prone skin. |
| Active Ingredient | Salicylic Acid 12% w/w |
| Form | Topical ointment |
| Skin Types | All skin types (use on targeted areas only) |
| Suitable For | Calluses, corns, warts, psoriasis, severe body acne, rough patches, thickened skin |
Apply a thin layer to the affected area only. Do not apply to healthy surrounding skin, open wounds, or irritated areas. For calluses, corns, and warts, apply once or twice daily as directed. For acne, apply to affected areas only. Wash hands after application. Use sunscreen on treated areas exposed to sun.
For acne, salicylic acid works well alongside retinoids like Tretinoin Cream 0.05% (apply at different times to avoid over-exfoliation). For dark spots left after acne or rough patches, follow up with Azelaic Acid 20% or Kojic Acid Cream once the skin has normalized.
Q: Can I use this on my face for acne?
A: At 12%, this ointment is very strong for facial use. For facial acne, lower-concentration salicylic acid products (0.5–2%) are typically recommended, or professional retinoids like Adapalene Gel or Tretinoin 0.025%. Consult your dermatologist before using 12% on the face.
Q: How long does it take to remove a wart?
A: Several weeks of daily application are typically needed. The salicylic acid gradually dissolves the thickened wart tissue layer by layer.
For external use only. Do not apply to large areas of the body. Do not use on moles, birthmarks, or unusual warts with hair growing from them. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. Consult a dermatologist or skincare provider before starting any new treatment.