Keratolytics are compounds that act to soften keratin, a key component of skin cells. These compounds can be used in the treatment of a wide variety of conditions involving overgrowth of skin. Some are available over the counter either as standalone preparations or blended into topical creams, and others are available by prescription only because they are strong or dangerous. Some common keratolytics include urea, salicylic acid, sulfur, and lactic acid.
Conditions like ichthyosis, psoriasis, warts, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne can all involve overgrowths of skin. Keratolytics can be used in the direct treatment of such conditions to soften the excess skin so that it will flake away and leave healthy underlying skin behind. They can also be combined with other medications. These drugs may be used to soften the skin so it can more readily absorb moisturizers, steroids, and other topical treatments designed to treat the skin condition.
When a patient has a condition involving overgrowth of skin, a dermatologist is usually involved in the treatment plan. The dermatologist can examine the skin, take a scraping if necessary, and recommend a course of action for addressing the problem. If a keratolytic is recommended, the patient will be given clear directions on its use, including how many times a day it should be applied, whether the wound needs to be bandaged, and any special precautions to take.
Sometimes these medications are applied with a swab. A clean swap is dipped into the container or a small amount of medication is squeezed out onto the swab and it is rubbed across the area of skin involved to allow the medication to penetrate. This can be more hygienic and will reduce the risk of irritating the skin on the hands by exposing it to keratolytics. In other instances, people need to massage the medication in and the hands should be thoroughly washed afterward or gloves should be worn while applying the medication.
Over-the-counter preparations designed for the treatment of warts and calluses commonly contain keratolytics to help break up excess skin so they can penetrate more deeply. If people use an over-the-counter cream for a condition like warts and they notice redness, irritation, swelling, or tenderness, they should discontinue use and consult a doctor. It is advisable to bring in the packaging for the medication so a doctor knows what it has been used for and has information about the directions provided on the packaging.