Salicylic Acid

Pregnancy

Topically applied salicylic acid is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream and can cross the placenta. This means that when topical salicylic acid is used during pregnancy, it can be transferred to the fetus. The amount of salicylic acid absorbed depends on the duration of the treatment and the strength of the medication.

Animal studies showed that oral (not topical) salicylic acid may cause fetal harm in rats and monkeys. However, It is difficult to extrapolate from oral doses used in these studies to topical administration in humans.

Moreover, well-controlled clinical studies with topical salicylic acid in pregnant women are lacking.

Thus, due to the lack of well-controlled clinical studies in pregnant women and the potential risk seen in animal studies, a woman who is pregnant or plans to become pregnant should consult with her doctor before using salicylic acid.

Breastfeeding

It is unknown whether topically applied salicylic acid is excreted in human milk.

There is not enough information on the safety of topical use of salicylic acid during breastfeeding. However, it is unlikely that topically applied salicylic acid will appear in breast milk.

Do not apply salicylic acid to the nipple area and make sure the infant’s skin does not come into contact with the areas of skin that have been treated with salicylic acid.

Consult your doctor before you start using salicylic acid during breastfeeding.