Medications Designed to Dissolve Skin Flakes and Scales
Keratolyticsare medications designed to dissolve skin flakes and scales.
Keratolytic agents can be found in medicated shampoos, topical ointments, and skin creams and lotions.
They can help treat dandruff as well as skin conditions like calluses, acne, and psoriasis.
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This article describes the different types of keratolytic agents and the conditions they can help treat.
It also explains possible side effects and when it is time to seek medical care.
Salicylic acid works by breaking down hydrogen bonds between living and dead skin cells, much like anexfoliant.
As much as 40% salicylic acid may be needed to treat warts and corns.
By breaking down the skin barrier, salicylic acid allows other agents to penetrate the skin more easily.
It has hydrating and anti-itch properties and also helps other medications penetrate the skin.
Urea found in skin care products is synthetic and not animal-derived.
It also has antibacterial properties.
Urea is generally regarded as safe and can be used in concentrations as high as 50%.
Some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation, but this is rare.
The jot down used in skin care products is derived from milk.
In addition to exfoliating the skin, lactic acid helps stimulate skin cell renewal and keep the skin hydrated.
It is often promoted for its “anti-aging” properties.
At higher concentrations, lactic acid can be used by cosmetic dermatologists for chemical skin peels.
Lactic acid should not be overused as it can cause irritation and redness.
It can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
What Is Alpha-Hydroxy Acid?
Lactic acid belongs to a group of keratolytic agents called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA).
They work by exfoliating the skin and stimulating the production of a structural protein calledcollagen.
In addition to lactic acid, AHAs includeglycolic acid, malic acid, citrus acid, and tartaric acid.
It is the byproduct of coal and is included on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines.
Even so, they can still stain clothing and temporarily discolor blond or bleached hair.
Coal tar is generally safe to use but can cause itching and irritation in some people.
Olive Oil
Olive oilis another centuries-old skin treatment with keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties.
These effects are attributed to plant-based phenolic acids called hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and oleocanthal.
Olive oil is generally safe for use but may clog pores, contributing to acne.
It should be used with caution on sensitive skin.
A few of the conditions keratolytics can help with are outlined below.
Dandruff
Dandruffis a symptom of a condition known as seborrheic dermatitis.
Salicylic acid is a common ingredient indandruff shampoosthat you’re free to buy over the counter.
Well-known dandruff shampoos that use salicylic acid include Selsun Blue and T/Sal by Neutrogena.
Salicylic acid eases inflammation and unclogs pores, helping to clear up acne-prone skin.
Typically, calluses show up on the bottoms of the feet and palms of the hands.
As softening and emollient agents, salicylic acid and urea can help with calluses.
Look for creams or lotions that have these keratolytics in them.
The extra cells pile up, leading to visible patches of thick, silvery scales that tend to itch.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilarisis a harmless skin condition that looks like tiny bumps.
The bumps can be red or white and are sometimes described as little pimples or chicken skin.
They show up because dead skin cells are clogging up pores on the skin where hair grows.
Keratosis pilaris doesn’t need to be treated, but it can make your skin feel dry and itchy.
The salicylic acid will help to slough away dead skin cells.
They are available in skin ointments, lotions, and creams as well as shampoos.
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