dersol 3% ointment - Salicylic Acid (3% w/w) medicine

Akralic Ointment (Salicylic Acid 3% w/w): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 East West Pharma 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for keratolytic uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe burning, blistering, or swelling at the application site.
  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
  • Symptoms of salicylism including dizziness, ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, or rapid breathing.
  • Skin infection with pus, increased pain, or fever.
  • No improvement or worsening of the condition after several weeks of use.
  • Development of new skin symptoms such as severe redness or peeling.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is dersol 3% ointment used for?

This medicine is a topical ointment containing 3% salicylic acid. It is used to treat skin conditions like corns, calluses, warts, and psoriasis by softening and removing dead skin cells. Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily, and avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

  • Generic Name: Salicylic Acid
  • Manufacturer: East West Pharma
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 dersol 3% ointment के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से त्वचा की समस्याओं जैसे कॉर्न, कॉलस, मस्से, सोरायसिस और सेबोरहिक डर्मेटाइटिस के इलाज के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह मृत त्वचा कोशिकाओं को नरम करके और हटाकर प्रभावित त्वचा को ठीक करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा 3% सैलिसिलिक एसिड युक्त एक मरहम है जिसे त्वचा पर पतली परत में लगाया जाता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में हल्की जलन, खुजली, लालिमा या त्वचा में सूखापन शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर अस्थायी होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें तेज जलन, छाले, सूजन या एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग करने से पहले और बाद में अपने हाथ अच्छी तरह धोएं। प्रभावित क्षेत्र को साफ और सूखा करें। दवा को केवल प्रभावित त्वचा पर पतली परत में लगाएं और आंखों, होंठों, नाक, मुंह और अन्य श्लेष्म झिल्ली के संपर्क से बचें। यदि गलती से संपर्क हो जाए तो तुरंत पानी से धो लें। इस दवा को बड़े क्षेत्रों पर या लंबे समय तक बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के उपयोग न करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो उपयोग से पहले डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 dersol 3% ointment Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Corns and calluses","description":"This medicine helps soften and remove the thickened, hardened skin that forms on the feet and hands due to pressure or friction.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common warts and plantar warts","description":"Salicylic acid works by peeling away the layers of the wart, eventually destroying the virus-infected tissue.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Psoriasis","description":"This medicine helps to reduce scaling and plaque formation on the skin by promoting shedding of dead skin cells.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Seborrheic dermatitis","description":"It helps to remove scales and flakes associated with this condition, especially on the scalp and face.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Acne","description":"Salicylic acid helps unclog pores and reduce blackheads and whiteheads by exfoliating the skin.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ichthyosis","description":"This medicine is used to soften and remove the dry, scaly skin characteristic of this genetic condition.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Keratosis pilaris","description":"It helps to smooth the rough, bumpy skin on the arms, thighs, and buttocks by exfoliating the hair follicles.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Dandruff","description":"Sometimes used in shampoos to help control flaking and itching of the scalp.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Hyperkeratotic eczema","description":"May be used to reduce thick, scaly skin in chronic eczema.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Corns and calluses

Also treats: Common warts, Plantar warts, Psoriasis, Seborrheic dermatitis, Acne, Ichthyosis, Keratosis pilaris

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Salicylic Acid
Brand NameAkralic 6% Ointment
ManufacturerEast West Pharma
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassDERMA
Action ClassKeratoplastic and keratolytic agents
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always clean and dry the affected area before applying this medicine to ensure better absorption and effectiveness.
2
Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin and avoid surrounding healthy skin to prevent irritation.
3
Do not cover the treated area with airtight dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
4
If you are using this medicine for warts, be patient as it may take several weeks of consistent use to see results.
5
Stop using this medicine and consult a doctor if you experience severe irritation, blistering, or signs of an allergic reaction.
6
Keep this medicine away from the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
7
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Thickened, hardened skin on feet or hands
This medicine is commonly used to soften and remove corns and calluses.
Likely Use
✅
Rough, raised bumps on the skin (warts)
This medicine helps to peel away warts.
Likely Use
✅
Scaly, red patches on the skin (psoriasis)
This medicine can help reduce scaling in psoriasis.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Infected skin with pus
Do not use this medicine on infected skin. Consult a doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSalicylic acid can be absorbed through the skin, especially if the skin is damaged, inflamed, or if the medicine is applied over a large area or under occlusion. However, at the 3% strength and for typical use on small areas, systemic absorption is minimal. Not established from the available information for specific absorption rates.
DistributionOnce absorbed, salicylic acid is distributed throughout the body fluids. It is known to cross the placenta and is excreted in breast milk. Not established from the available information for volume of distribution.
Protein BindingSalicylic acid is approximately 80-90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin. This binding can be reduced in conditions such as hypoalbuminemia or when other protein-bound drugs are present.
MetabolismSalicylic acid is metabolized in the liver by conjugation with glycine to form salicyluric acid, and with glucuronic acid to form salicyl acyl glucuronide and salicyl phenolic glucuronide. A small amount is also oxidized to gentisic acid.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of salicylic acid is dose-dependent. At low doses, it is approximately 2 to 3 hours. At higher doses, the half-life can increase to 15 to 30 hours due to saturation of metabolic pathways.
ExcretionSalicylic acid and its metabolites are primarily excreted by the kidneys. The rate of excretion is influenced by urine pH; alkaline urine increases excretion, while acidic urine decreases it.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information for topical application. Systemic bioavailability depends on the extent of skin absorption.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for this medicine is gradual. It may take several days to weeks of regular application to see noticeable improvement in the treated skin condition.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information for topical application.
Duration of ActionThe effects of this medicine last as long as it is applied regularly. Once discontinued, the skin may gradually return to its previous state if the underlying condition persists.

How It Works

This medicine works by softening and dissolving the keratin, a protein that forms the outer layer of the skin. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates the skin and breaks down the intercellular matrix, the glue-like substance that holds dead skin cells together. This leads to a gentle peeling and shedding of the thickened, scaly skin, revealing smoother skin underneath. It also has mild antimicrobial properties that help prevent secondary infections.

Mechanism Steps

1
Penetration into the skin: Salicylic acid penetrates the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, due to its lipophilic nature.
2
Breakdown of intercellular matrix: It disrupts the bonds between dead skin cells by dissolving the intercellular matrix, which is made of lipids and proteins.
3
Desquamation: The loosened dead skin cells are then shed from the surface, leading to a reduction in scaling and thickening.
4
Antimicrobial action: Salicylic acid also creates an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.

💡 How to Take dersol 3% ointment

Strength: Ointment containing Salicylic Acid 3% w/w.

1Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying this medicine.
2Clean and dry the affected area gently.
3Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected skin, avoiding surrounding healthy skin.
4Rub it in gently if directed, or leave a thin layer on the surface.
5Do not cover the area with a bandage unless instructed by a doctor.
6Wash your hands immediately after application to avoid spreading the medicine to other areas.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageApply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. Clean and dry the area before application. The frequency and duration of use depend on the condition being treated and your response to therapy. For corns and calluses, it may be applied once daily after soaking the area in warm water. For warts, it may be applied once or twice daily for several weeks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to skin irritation and systemic absorption. Use with caution and under medical supervision. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for topical use. However, in patients with severe renal impairment, systemic absorption should be minimized. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for topical use. However, in patients with severe hepatic impairment, systemic absorption should be minimized. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Do not exceed the recommended application frequency or duration without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Not applicable
This medicine is for topical use and does not interact with food.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not apply a double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of dersol 3% ointment

✅ Common Side Effects

Mild burning or stinging (Common (5-10%))
This usually subsides after a few minutes. If it persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Redness or irritation (Common (5-10%))
Apply a moisturizer or reduce the frequency of application. Consult a doctor if it does not improve.
Dryness or peeling (Common (10-20%))
This is expected as the medicine works. Use a gentle moisturizer if needed.
Itching (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stop using the medicine and consult a doctor if itching is severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe skin irritation or blistering (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using the medicine immediately and seek medical attention.
Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately.
Salicylism (dizziness, ringing in ears, nausea, rapid breathing) (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using the medicine and contact a doctor or poison control center right away.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Systemic salicylate toxicity
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like confusion, severe headache, or rapid breathing.
Contact dermatitis
Discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Methotrexate Moderate
Sulfonylureas Moderate
Topical corticosteroids Minor
Topical retinoids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical salicylates or keratolytics
  • Oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Methotrexate
  • Sulfonylureas (e.g., glibenclamide)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known direct interaction between this medicine and alcohol when used topically. However, if you consume alcohol excessively, it may increase the risk of stomach irritation if the medicine is absorbed systemically. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake while using this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to salicylic acid or any component of the formulation.","Application to broken, infected, or inflamed skin.","Use on the face, genital area, or mucous membranes unless directed by a doctor.","Use in children under 2 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor.","Use in patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or immune system disorders without medical supervision.","Use on large areas of the body or for prolonged periods without medical advice."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Do not ingest.","Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.","Do not apply to moles, birthmarks, or unusual skin growths without a doctor's evaluation.","Do not use on large areas of the body or cover with airtight dressings unless instructed by a doctor.","Keep out of reach of children.","If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before use.","If symptoms persist or worsen after a few weeks, discontinue use and consult a doctor.","Do not use if the tube is damaged or the product has expired."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Salicylic acid is excreted in breast milk, but the amount absorbed from topical use is minimal. It is generally considered safe to use this medicine while breastfeeding, but avoid applying it to the breast area to prevent infant exposure. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose from topical use is unlikely but can occur if large amounts are applied over extensive areas, especially in children or if the skin is damaged. Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, and confusion. If you suspect an overdose, wash the affected area thoroughly with water and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, and monitoring of vital signs.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying this medicine. Clean and dry the affected area before application. Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin and avoid contact with eyes, lips, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Do not use this medicine on moles, birthmarks, or unusual skin growths without a doctor's evaluation. Avoid using this medicine on large areas of the body or for prolonged periods without medical supervision. Do not bandage or cover the treated area tightly unless your doctor advises otherwise. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to salicylic acid or any other ingredients in the product. If your condition does not improve after a few weeks of use, or if it worsens, stop using this medicine and consult a doctor.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have thinner, more sensitive skin and are more prone to irritation. Use this medicine with caution and under medical supervision. Monitor for signs of systemic absorption if using on large areas.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe, but it is best to avoid unnecessary medications during pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Do not apply this medicine to surgical wounds or broken skin. Consult your doctor before using it on any area that has recently undergone surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine is for topical skin use and does not affect dental procedures. However, if you have a skin condition around the mouth, inform your dentist before any procedure.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent infection.
🥗
Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces if you have corns or calluses on your feet.
😴
Wear properly fitting shoes to reduce pressure on your feet.
💧
Use a pumice stone or file gently to remove dead skin, but avoid cutting corns or calluses.
🧘
Maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of warts.
🌞
Avoid sharing towels or personal items if you have warts.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

If you have corns or calluses on your feet, avoid high-impact exercises that put pressure on the affected area until it heals. Swimming may be allowed if the area is not irritated, but avoid public pools if you have warts to prevent spreading. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine if you have a skin condition.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support skin health.
Include foods high in vitamin C and E, which can help with skin repair.
Stay well hydrated to keep your skin moisturized.
Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which can worsen inflammation.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is applied topically and is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects, avoid these activities until you feel better. It does not usually interfere with work, but if you have a visible skin condition, you may feel self-conscious. Follow your doctor's advice for best results.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine and consult a doctor if your condition does not improve after a few weeks, if it worsens, or if you experience severe side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you are using it for a chronic condition without consulting your doctor, as the condition may flare up.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine over large areas or for extended periods can lead to systemic absorption of salicylic acid, potentially causing salicylism. It is not recommended for prolonged use without medical supervision. If you need to use it for more than a few weeks, consult your doctor for monitoring. Prolonged use may also cause skin dryness, irritation, or thinning of the skin.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cryotherapy

Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen, performed by a doctor.

Evidence: Well-established
Salicylic acid patches

Medicated patches that provide continuous delivery of salicylic acid.

Evidence: Well-established
Laser therapy

Used for stubborn warts or skin conditions, performed by a specialist.

Evidence: Moderate
Moisturizers with urea

Help soften and hydrate dry, scaly skin.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you have a skin infection, consult your doctor before vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, keep it in its original packaging to avoid confusion. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs or to a healthcare provider. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are traveling across time zones, continue applying it as per your usual schedule. Do not leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight. If you are flying, pack it in your carry-on luggage if you need it during the flight, but ensure it complies with airline regulations for liquids and gels.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with a painful corn on his foot.
He had a hard, painful corn on the sole of his foot that made walking uncomfortable. His doctor recommended this medicine. He applied it once daily after soaking his foot in warm water. After two weeks, the corn softened and gradually peeled away, and the pain disappeared. He emphasized the importance of not picking at the corn and letting it fall off naturally.
💡 Lesson: Consistent application and patience are key. Do not try to cut or pick the corn, as this can lead to infection.
👤 A 30-year-old woman with a common wart on her hand.
She had a wart on her finger that she wanted to remove. She started using this medicine twice daily as directed. Initially, she experienced mild stinging, but it subsided. After about four weeks, the wart became smaller and eventually disappeared. She was careful to avoid applying the medicine to the surrounding healthy skin.
💡 Lesson: It may take several weeks for warts to respond. Consistent use and avoiding healthy skin are important for success.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: It may take several days to weeks of regular application to see noticeable improvement. For warts, it can take several weeks to months.

Q: Can I use this medicine on my face?

A: No, unless specifically directed by a doctor. It can cause severe irritation on the face.

Q: Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before use. Topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe in small amounts, but medical advice is recommended.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Apply it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Can I cover the treated area with a bandage?

A: Do not cover with airtight dressings unless instructed by a doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine on my face?
  • How long can I use this medicine?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • Can I use it while pregnant?
  • What if I accidentally swallow it?
  • Can I use it with other skin creams?
  • Will it leave a scar?
  • Does it work on all types of warts?

🔄 Substitutes for dersol 3% ointment

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure skin cancer.
    Fact: This medicine is not a treatment for skin cancer. It only removes dead skin cells and should not be used on suspicious skin growths without a doctor's evaluation.
  • Myth: More medicine means faster results.
    Fact: Applying more than the recommended amount can cause severe irritation and increase the risk of side effects. Always follow the prescribed dose.
  • Myth: It is safe to use on any skin problem.
    Fact: This medicine should not be used on broken, infected, or inflamed skin, or on moles or birthmarks. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Salicylic acid 3% ointment

Brand Alternatives

  • Akralic Ointment

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine (Salicylic acid 3%)","strength":"3% w/w","form":"Ointment","primary_use":"Mild keratolysis"},{"medicine":"Salicylic acid 6%","strength":"6% w/w","form":"Ointment","primary_use":"Moderate keratolysis"},{"medicine":"Salicylic acid 12%","strength":"12% w/w","form":"Ointment","primary_use":"Severe keratolysis"},{"medicine":"Urea 10%","strength":"10% w/w","form":"Cream","primary_use":"Moisturizing and keratolytic"}]

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