Many young people suffer from acne and increased sebum secretion. They are a source of trouble: a person experiences psychological complexes and dissatisfaction with himself. Adults can also have problems with appearance due to acne. Salicylic-zinc paste helps get rid of unsightly acne and keeps the skin clean.
Composition of the ointment
The drug is otherwise called “Lassara paste”. It is named after the dermatologist Lassar, who lived in Germany in the 19th century. Includes:
- salicylic acid;
- zinc oxide;
- petrolatum;
- starch.
Zinc oxide is a common substance used in cosmetic formulations. It is a white powder. It is obtained by heating zinc to high temperatures. This produces steam, which mixes with air to form an oxide powder. It does not dissolve in water and forms solutions in acids.
Zinc oxide is found in:
- cosmetic creams designed to protect against ultraviolet radiation;
- foundations;
- baby powders;
- shampoos;
- hygiene products;
- deodorants and antiperspirants;
- products intended for the care of children's skin.
Salicylic acid is a substance first obtained from willow bark. Its most famous derivative is known as Acetylsalicylic acid.
Salicylic acid stimulates the removal of dead epidermal cells. This is especially true for people whose faces are prone to acne. Acid helps:
- remove dead cells;
- restore the dermis;
- dissolve sebum, cleanse pores from it (a large amount of sebaceous gland secretions accumulate in them);
- tighten pores;
- dissolve blackheads;
- relieve the inflammatory process.
Vaseline in the composition of salicylic-zinc paste eliminates scars, softens them, relieves irritation, and protects from the influence of weather.
You can often come across the question of whether a paste is different from an ointment. There are no differences between them.
Composition of Lassara paste
The main active ingredients are zinc oxide (25 g) and salicylic acid (2 g). Lassara paste contains starch (25 g) and medical petroleum jelly (48 g). It has a thick, dense, white consistency with a slight oily odor. Used as a local anti-inflammatory drug, in addition it has the following effects:
- adsorbent;
- drying;
- keratolytic;
- astringent;
- antimicrobial.
Pharmacological action of the drug
Has a combined effect. Prescribed for external use.
Lassara paste has the following properties:
- reduces the amount of fat produced by the sebaceous glands;
- disinfects the skin;
- relieves inflammation, dries affected areas;
- reduces the intensity of irritation;
- restores damaged areas;
- increases tissue elasticity.
Lassara paste with sulfur
Otherwise it is called “salicylic-sulfur-zinc ointment.” 20 g of the drug additionally contains another 5 g of pure sulfur. The drug is effectively used to get rid of juvenile acne. Suitable for treating deep-seated acne that is difficult to respond to other types of therapy.
Lassara paste with sulfur has a pronounced antiseptic, antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory effect.
Pharmacological properties
It acts very gently and is capable of providing the highest quality and effective effect on the application surface. The properties are characterized by the ability to create an enveloping effect and quickly eliminate pigment spots on the surface of application and persistent effects of damage to the skin layer.
A specific coating is formed in the areas where the product is used, which prevents the penetration of harmful microorganisms.
The use of such a drug ensures the process of binding water molecules, which guarantees the creation of all the conditions necessary to accelerate the healing processes of wounds and scratches.
Dries the skin very well and whitens it. The application of the medication contributes to the high-quality restoration of areas, eliminates harmful microorganisms and bacteria that interfere with the flow of full metabolic processes.
How to apply the ointment?
It is effective if it is applied to fresh inflamed areas. If they are treated in a timely manner, the pimple will not grow or, at least, will not leave a mark. An indispensable condition for the effectiveness of treatment is applying the drug to clean skin.
The ointment is indicated for;
- pimples, blackheads, acne;
- warts, eczema;
- shallow wounds, boils;
- skin growths (to soften them);
- therapy of skin infectious diseases.
Salicylic-zinc ointment can effectively cleanse pores by dissolving fat deposits.
When using this drug you must follow the following recommendations:
- Wash your face or other area of the body, clean it of dead skin.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
- Treat the rash with an antiseptic (hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine is suitable for this).
- If there are bubbles, they are opened using a thin needle treated with hydrogen peroxide.
- The drug should be applied to the entire face in a thin layer. Avoid areas around the lips. The ointment should not be applied to the lips. Apply to shoulders and décolleté only when necessary.
- Some doctors recommend doing a lotion. To do this, apply the paste to the affected area and then cover it with a napkin. The napkin must be secured with a bandage or adhesive plaster.
The duration of treatment with zinc-salicylic ointment is about a month. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Advice Salicylic-zinc paste is quite difficult to wash off. That is why it is recommended to apply it to the face in the evening and remove it with a clean paper napkin. The very next morning, some notice the first positive changes.
For the treatment of comedones and post-acne, the drug is used as follows:
- Cleanse the skin by washing your face with warm water.
- Treat the affected areas with Miramistin or another antiseptic.
- Apply salicylic-zinc paste in a thick layer, leaving overnight.
- Wash thoroughly in the morning.
The effect of the drug will improve if you steam the skin before applying it. This will soften it, and the active components will penetrate even into the deepest layers.
Methods of application
For external use only, apply a thin layer to the area that needs treatment. After applying to the skin, the paste is rubbed into the affected areas with slow massaging movements.
If necessary, you can increase the dosage of practical use, which is indicated in the product manual.
Application is carried out during a course of practical use, which is prescribed by the treating specialist for the treatment of specific water damage to the skin.
It can be used in the most modern areas of cosmetology, and the procedure for practical use can differ significantly each time.
Other Applications
Salicylic-zinc ointment can effectively get rid of calluses. Before applying the drug, the callus must be carefully opened. The needle must be treated with an antiseptic, otherwise an infection can easily be introduced into the wound. The drug should be applied in a thick layer to previously cleansed, dried skin treated with an alcohol solution.
The paste prevents the growth of bacteria, dries the skin, and prevents the formation of new calluses.
If a person has sweaty feet, a paste containing zinc oxide and salicylic acid can also be applied. It works much more effectively than advertised remedies against sweaty feet. The medicine prevents the growth of bacteria, which causes an unpleasant odor.
The medicine helps fight demodex mites. In this disease, it relieves inflammation and itching well. During treatment, you should limit the consumption of sweets and starchy foods, and completely stop drinking alcohol.
Treatment of age spots
Sometimes acne can be combined with areas of increased pigmentation. To lighten the skin and even out its tone, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of the medicine to the face. It is advisable to mix it with baby cream or cosmetic oil and apply it in this form not only to the face, but also to the arms, shoulders - all areas of the body where there is darkening in the form of spots.
Treatment of psoriasis
For psoriasis, you can achieve good results if you use salicylic-zinc ointment in combination with other medications. Oral use of drugs prescribed for the treatment of psoriasis is allowed. In order to strengthen the body, it is recommended to take decoctions of medicinal herbs and black cumin oil. It is allowed to take antihistamines to help minimize the inflammatory process.
Reviews
Alina, 25 years old
This medicine saved me more than once in school, teenage acne, blackheads, and other delights of adolescence. I didn’t smear it all over my face, but only on problem areas at night, then it really didn’t wash off well, but nothing. We always have it in our first aid kit; my daughter has used it several times. It works faster than any expensive creams, so I recommend it to everyone.
Irina, 22 years old
I used the paste for a newborn, I can confirm that this method works. After the diaper there were scabs on the butt and slight irritation; the powder did not help. At the maternity hospital they recommended this remedy; at first I forgot, and then I remembered. You just need to apply a little bit, and it works great, the baby immediately stopped crying! I also want to try it for rashes and acne.
Svetlana, 35 years old
An excellent remedy against acne - cheap and cheerful, the main thing is that you no longer need to go to the cosmetologist every week. Well, unless you have some serious illness, it helps very quickly with ordinary acne and wen. I used to use a solution with salicylic acid, but it dries out the skin more. I tried this one and liked it!
When is pasta contraindicated?
Despite its benefits, the ointment has contraindications. It is prohibited to use in the following cases:
- the presence of an allergic reaction to any of the components;
- kidney and liver failure;
- vascular diseases;
- anemia;
- ulcerative processes in the stomach;
- diabetes;
- pregnancy;
- lactation.
Please note
It is not recommended to use the paste simultaneously with cleansing scrubs and skin care products containing alcohol, resorcinol or benzoyl derivatives. Failure to follow this recommendation may result in severe skin irritation.
The paste should be used with caution by persons under 12 years of age.
It is not recommended to use the medicine if a person has dry skin. In this case, the treatment will lead to even greater drying of the skin, constant peeling, and redness.
Possible side effects of zinc oxide
Although zinc is considered safe and non-allergenic for most people, unlike many other chemical products, there are still some concerns about its possible effects on the skin, as irritation has been reported in some cases after using products containing it. If you notice such symptoms such as swelling, itching or tingling, stop using products containing zinc and consult a doctor if such symptoms persist for a long time.
special instructions
You should apply the paste to your skin regularly to improve the condition of your skin. It is advisable to continue therapy until the normal appearance of the face and other parts of the body is completely restored. If it is not possible to apply the medicine daily, then you need to do it at least every other day. When it becomes noticeable that after the paste the pores begin to become clogged and the skin becomes dry, it is possible that it is not suitable.
Attention
If blackheads, acne and other formations appear on the skin as a result of improper functioning of the intestines or endocrine glands, then the paste will not work. You should consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of acne on the skin.
If it is discovered that the rash or acne appears as a result of improper functioning of the digestive organs, then in parallel with treatment it is necessary to follow a diet. Spicy and fried foods, pickles, marinades and smoked foods are strictly prohibited. Alcohol is completely excluded. Easily digestible carbohydrates should be excluded to a minimum.
Correction of endocrine system disorders is carried out only under the supervision of a physician. It is forbidden to take any hormonal medications on your own.
The paste should be applied to the skin only with clean, thoroughly washed hands. Otherwise, the infection will constantly spread to the affected areas and treatment will be ineffective.
In cosmetology
The use of paste in cosmetology is justified in the following situations:
- Urgent need to eliminate acne on the skin.
- Carrying out complex treatment of pigment formations that have arisen on the skin through their bleaching.
- Improving the antiseptic abilities of the skin.
- Creating the necessary conditions to maintain the necessary balance of microelements on the surface of the skin.
- To prevent the occurrence of skin acne.
- In order to improve the bactericidal properties of body parts.
- In order to prevent the manifestation of herpes and other skin lesions.
- To improve skin regeneration properties.
Are there any alternatives to salicylic zinc pestle?
Zinc-salicylic paste costs from 15 to 25 rubles. per bottle 20 ml. It can be used for a long time and with virtually no breaks. However, if there are contraindications, there is no need to leave the skin with acne, age spots and other defects. The following home remedies work well to whiten and remove acne:
- lemon juice;
- baking soda (sodium bicarbonate);
- hydrogen peroxide;
- decoction of parsley leaves;
- sage decoction;
- dandelion decoction;
- berry juices.
Salicylic-zinc paste is an excellent medicine for fighting acne. It is distinguished by its affordable penny price, almost complete absence of side effects and high effectiveness of treatment. If you follow all the recommendations, you can completely get rid of acne, rashes, redness and other defects in a relatively short time.
For adults
As indicated in the instructions for use, salicylic-zinc paste can be used by adults two to four times a day. The product should be left on the skin for some time. The ointment is not absorbed and remains in the form of a white spot for some time. After 20-25 minutes, the product is absorbed, the active substances have a therapeutic effect.
Salicylic-zinc paste is effective against acne. It is applied to painful areas of the skin. The duration of treatment is determined by the severity of the positive effect and elimination of the manifestations of the disease. Salicylic-zinc paste for acne and other skin ailments can be used for a long time because it has a non-aggressive composition. On average, treatment lasts one and a half to two weeks.
According to reviews, salicylic-zinc acne paste is applied to rashes. This ensures the best effect. You can use a cotton swab for this. Applying in a thick layer will enhance the effect. The product has a drying effect, so the rash after its use does not spread to large areas of the skin.
Overdose
If a patient who has begun external treatment of damaged skin with salicylic-zinc ointment notices any side effects, he must urgently contact a medical facility for consultation.
He should independently take the following actions:
- It is necessary to carefully remove any remaining medication from the skin. To do this, you can use a paper or cloth napkin. After this, the skin should be rinsed with running water and dried.
- Symptomatic therapy is carried out.
If the patient exceeds the dosage prescribed by the specialist, he may experience the following side effects:
- a strong burning sensation will appear in the places where the medication was applied;
- may feel dizzy;
- there is noise in the ears;
- sweating increases;
- the skin begins to itch very much, etc.
In this case, it is necessary to stop using the ointment and get new prescriptions from a dermatologist. Perhaps the patient has an individual intolerance to the components of this medication, then the specialist will select another drug for external use.
Contraindications for use
We have looked at salicylic-zinc paste, what it is used for, let's move on to contraindications for use. The main contraindication to the use of the medication is the presence of allergic reactions and hypersensitivity to the composition. In addition, it is recommended to stop using the medicine if:
- disorders of the liver and kidneys;
- pathologies associated with blood circulation;
- anemia;
- diabetes mellitus and stomach ulcers.
Salicylic-zinc paste is actively used in the treatment of acne, acne, herpes, dermatitis, burns
It is forbidden to use this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition, experts say that the simultaneous use of the drug in combination with scrubs containing abrasive components and cosmetic products based on ethyl alcohol can cause irritation. This negative side effect can also occur when using medications based on benzol peroxide or resorcinol in combination with the drug.
In other cases, the use of salicylic-zinc paste rarely causes side effects. The product's annotation states that application of the composition can cause local allergic reactions, manifested in the form of itching, burning, hyperthermia and irritation. In more complex cases, a feeling of dizziness, attacks of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
Composition and properties of salicylic-zinc paste
This drug is a thick white ointment, sometimes with a yellowish tint. The product was invented more than a century ago by the dermatologist Lassar, and to this day the substance is called Lassar's paste. The product contains salicylic acid, starch and zinc oxides, and petroleum jelly as a base. When using, it is worth considering that due to the component composition, the paste is not very well absorbed into the skin and can clog pores, however, its high efficiency and affordable price usually make these disadvantages insignificant. The product is available in a variety of shapes and volumes - 25, 50 and 100 grams in tubes, jars and polymer bottles.
The substance has properties that are important for topical use for skin problems, namely drying, exfoliating and disinfecting (destroying bacteria). The drug also helps relieve the inflammatory process and normalizes the functioning of the sweat glands, which prevents many problems. Salicylic acid, even when applied to the skin, may partially enter the bloodstream.
Description
The medication is available in the form of a white homogeneous mass with a yellowish or grayish tint.
The therapeutic effect of the drug is explained by its medicinal components: salicylic acid and zinc oxide.
- Salicylic acid stops the inflammatory process, causes the death of pathogenic microflora, has a keratolytic effect, and blocks the function of the sebaceous and sweat glands.
- Zinc oxide also has anti-inflammatory, drying and antiseptic effects, and eliminates irritation.
Mask for mixed skin types
Take 8 g. zinc ointment, add 2 tbsp. l. licorice root (purchase at the pharmacy) and mix everything into a single consistency. Then smear the resulting paste onto your face, except for the area around the eyes. Wait about twenty minutes and wash the treated area well. After washing, be sure to use a moisturizer. This type of mask evens out skin tone, eliminates acne and oily shine.
Mask for oily type
Stir black and pink clay (a tablespoon each) in a bowl. Add enough water to form a thick mass. Add a teaspoon of zinc ointment. Apply to skin and wait 15 minutes. Thanks to this mask, the skin will acquire a matte color, and the pores will be deeply cleansed of impurities. It is better to use after a shower (three times a week).
Thanks to salicylic-based products with zinc, all segments of society now have the opportunity to get rid of various types of problems and rashes, and look beautiful and impressive.
Terms of use
The method of using the paste is simple. It is applied to acne, depending on the severity of the clinical picture, 1 or 2 times a day. When applying in the morning, you need to take into account that the medication is not absorbed and will be visible to others, so it is better to apply it at night.
The duration of therapy should not exceed 14 days. If no positive dynamics are observed when using the drug, then you should consult a doctor.
When using the product, consider the following:
- Apply the medicine to previously cleansed and dried skin
- The drug is applied pointwise, only to problem areas.
- If you have not used the drug before, then before applying it to your face you need to check its tolerance. Apply a small amount of the medicine to the bend of the elbow and check the skin reaction; if it becomes very red, a rash and blisters appear on it, then it is better to discard the product.
- When using the medication, you need to make sure that it does not get into your eyes; if this happens, they should be rinsed with plenty of water.
- After applying the medicine, it is not recommended to use powder or foundation, otherwise you will not be able to quickly get rid of acne. In addition, the product is very greasy and makeup will not stick to it.
- Salicylic acid, which is part of the drug, can penetrate the skin and enhance the undesirable effects of methotrexate and oral sulfonylurea antihyperglycemic agents.
- The medicine should not be applied to wet wounds or used on very dry skin.
- To prevent the paste from losing its medicinal properties, it must be stored in a dark place for 4 years from the date of manufacture. The storage temperature must be specified on the packaging, since it may differ depending on the manufacturer, for example, the drug produced by Samaramedprom OJSC does not deteriorate at an air temperature of no higher than 25 degrees, the medicine from Tula Pharmaceutical Factory LLC must be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature of 8- 15 degrees. The product from Tver Pharmaceutical Factory OJSC remains effective if kept at a temperature of 12-25 degrees. The medicine produced by Moscow Pharmaceutical Factory CJSC should be stored at an ambient temperature of no more than 20 degrees.
- Preparations with salicylic acid are not recommended for use on birthmarks and hairy warts.
- Salicylic acid, which is part of the drug, can increase the permeability of the skin to other medications for topical use, which will lead to increased absorption.
- Due to the salicylic acid content, it is not recommended to use acne products containing benzoyl peroxide during therapy.
- To remove salicylic-zinc paste, you can use lotion or foam for washing, since it is not possible to wash off the drug with ordinary water. You can use micellar water for these purposes.
Terms of purchase and substitutes
You can purchase salicylic-zinc paste without a doctor's prescription. You can replace the drug with the following medications:
- Alcohol solution of salicylic acid. The medicine is a colorless transparent liquid with a characteristic odor of ethyl alcohol. The medication is contraindicated in newborns, patients with renal failure and intolerance to the composition of the drug. For acne, wipe your face with the solution up to 3 times a day. The highest daily dosage for adults is 2 g of salicylic acid. Salicylic alcohol is suitable for children; for them the highest daily dosage is 0.2 g. The duration of treatment should not exceed 7 days. Salicylic alcohol cannot be mixed with resorcinol at the same time, since in this case a spreading mass is formed. The solution is not compatible with zinc oxide; as a result of a chemical reaction, zinc salicylate is formed.
- Tsindol. The drug is produced in the form of a heterogeneous suspension. After shaking it, a white precipitate quickly falls out and a grayish tint is allowed. The drug has an astringent, drying and disinfectant effect. Tsindol should not be used if you are intolerant to its composition, in which case it can provoke an allergy manifested by itching, redness and rashes. For acne, apply the drug to a sterile bandage and wipe the pimples with it 2-3 times a day.
Contraindications and side effects
The first contraindication is individual intolerance to the components of the composition, even to the auxiliary one. Children under 12 years of age should also avoid using the paste. Manufacturers do not describe any other restrictions, but this does not mean that the use can be uncontrolled. If used incorrectly, real harm can be caused to the body.
Side effects usually concern only the allergic reaction that occurs due to the increased sensitivity of the patient's body. At the site of application, burning sensations, active itching, and even pain may form. This development of events requires stopping the use of the composition, and if the temperature still rises, then you cannot do without consulting a doctor.
Therapeutic effect
Salicylic-zinc ointment has the following therapeutic effect on damaged skin:
- Due to the presence of components in its composition that have an antiseptic effect, the paste perfectly disinfects even festering wounds.
- Regular use of this medication can significantly speed up regeneration processes.
- After a course of external therapy, the skin acquires natural elasticity. In patients, neither scars nor cicatrices form at the sites of former lesions.
- The components of the ointment help to minimize the intensity of sebum (skin) production.
- The use of this paste allows you to dry the epithelium and eliminate inflammation.
Features of application
If a pregnant woman needs treatment, she should use the medication only after consultation with a dermatologist and gynecologist. Specialists must compare all possible threats to the baby with the benefits that the expectant mother will receive from external therapy. The drug should be used with great caution in the first three months of pregnancy. Due to the fact that the components of the ointment are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, they can harm an actively developing fetus.
At this time, it is prohibited to use drugs in parallel that contain similar components. If this happens, their concentration in the woman’s body will exceed, and this can lead to spontaneous abortion.
Therapeutic actions and composition of salicylic ointment
Currently, you can purchase Salicylic preparation with different concentrations of the active component - 1/2/3/5 percent. Sometimes the packaging says “Salicylic cream 5,” which means 5% of the active substance. In some cases, “ointment 30 or 50” is indicated, this indicates the amount of medicinal substance in the tube.
The pharmaceutical industry offers several varieties of Salicylic medicine for topical use:
- Salicylic ointment;
- Sulfur-salicylic ointment;
- Salicylic-zinc ointment.
The product is sold without a prescription. But it is not always possible to find the required amount of active ingredient in the free market, so a medical specialist writes a prescription for individual production. The drug can be prepared in many pharmacies, the price is practically no different from the ready-made version. The composition contains salicylic acid - the main active substance with biological activity and petroleum jelly, which ensures the homogeneity of the structure.
It is worth knowing: the therapeutic effects of the drug are determined by the active substance – salicylic acid. The medication has antiseptic, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory and antiseborrheic effects.
Instructions for use of Salicylic ointment indicate that the antiseptic property of the drug is focused on the destruction of pathogenic microflora, as a result, the inflammatory process occurring in the skin and sebaceous/sweat glands is stopped. Thanks to this effect, acne and ulcers are leveled out, and the course of chronic pathologies - dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema - improves.
The essence of the keratolytic effect is simple - thanks to salicylic acid, fatty plugs in the pores melt, as a result, they easily flow out. At the same time, the pores open, which leads to the elimination of comedones, and the appearance of new blackheads is prevented.
The anti-inflammatory effect consists of stopping inflammatory processes, reducing their severity, and preventing spread. The ointment quickly eliminates hyperemia and swelling, accelerates the healing of burns and other damage to the skin.
Indications for use
It has been effective against acne for over 100 years. But acne is not the only indication for use. Lassara paste can be used for many other diseases. Here is a complete list of main indications:
- Dermatitis.
- Psoriasis.
- Eczema.
- Streptoderma.
- Herpes.
- Increased sweating.
- Diaper rash in children.
- Miliaria in newborns and adults.
- Small wounds.
- Shallow burns.
- Trophic ulcers.
- Bedsores.
But still, salicylic-zinc paste is usually used for acne. It is for this purpose that medicine is most often purchased.
Dermatologists prescribe the medicine quite often, because it copes well with subcutaneous pimples, blackheads, rashes, and acne marks. Moreover, it acts not only effectively, but also quickly.
Analogs
There are medicines that have similar indications to zinc ointment. They may differ in composition and cost. These drugs include the following analogues:
- Solcoseryl - contains an extract from the blood of cattle. Has a pronounced reparative effect. Prescribed for burns, bedsores and erosive skin processes.
- Bepanten - the main active ingredient is dexpanthenol. It has an anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous effect, heals small cracks and wounds well.
- Levomekol - the ointment contains chloramphenicol and methiuracil, which exhibit a pronounced antimicrobial, antiseptic regenerative effect, eliminate inflammation at the site of pathology.
- Galmanine is produced in the form of a white powder. The main components are zinc oxide and salicylic acid, with talc as an adjuvant. The components act superficially and do not penetrate deeply into the tissue. Used for hyperhidrosis and exudative dermatitis.
How and when does paste help?
Thanks to the active substances, the medication for acne:
- reduces the production of sebum, which prevents clogging of open pores and the development of inflammation;
- destroys the death of pathogenic microorganisms that cause acne;
- dry the exudate;
- relieves inflammation and irritation;
- accelerates the healing of damaged tissues;
- makes the skin more elastic;
- exfoliates dead particles of the epidermis;
- zinc oxide in combination with petroleum jelly creates a protective film on the skin, which reduces the irritating effects of external factors;
- salicylic acid, which is part of the medicine, whitens the skin.
The paste contains petroleum jelly and starch as inactive components.
The first such composition for the treatment of acne was proposed by the German doctor O. Lassar, hence the other name of the drug - Lassar paste.
The medication is packaged in plastic or dark glass jars or aluminum tubes.
