Keratolytics

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Chapter: Essential pharmacology : Drugs Acting On Skin And Mucous Membranes

Keratolytics dissolve the intercellular substance in the horny layer of skin. The epidermal cells swell, soften and then desquamate. These drugs are used on hyperkeratotic lesions like corns, warts, psoriasis, chronic dermatitis, ring worm, athletes foot, etc.


KERATOLYTICS

 

Keratolytics dissolve the intercellular substance in the horny layer of skin. The epidermal cells swell, soften and then desquamate. These drugs are used on hyperkeratotic lesions like corns, warts, psoriasis, chronic dermatitis, ring worm, athletes foot, etc.

 

Salicylic acid As 10–20% solution in alcohol or propylene glycol for dissolving corns. More effective when applied under occlusive dressing. Propylene glycol is hygroscopic. Applied under polyethylene occlusive dressing, it causes maceration of skin and acts as a keratolytic, supplementing the action of salicylic acid.

 

CORNAC 16.5% liquid, CORN CAP 40% oint in adhesive tape.

 

Lower concentrations (3–5%) are used in other conditions, e.g. in Whitfield’s ointment.

 

RINGCUTTER 3% ointment with 5% benzoic acid.

 

It is also mildly antiseptic and antifungal.

 

Resorcinol Has antiseptic, antifungal, local irritant and keratolytic properties; 3–10% is used in eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm, etc.

 

Urea  Applied at a concentration of 5–20% in cream/ointment base, urea acts as a humectant by its hygroscopic and water retaining property. It causes softening and solubilization of keratin, facilitating its removal from hyperkeratinized lesions like ichthyosis, lichen planus. Inclusion of urea enhances the penetration of the concurrently applied topical steroid.

 

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