Kerasal is a brand of topical medication you can buy over the counter. You can use Kerasal to treat a variety of skin conditions, including calluses, corns, and nail fungus.
This article will take a closer look at Kerasal, especially the active ingredients that make it work.
The active ingredients in Kerasal are salicylic acid and urea. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, which means it helps to dissolve the outer layer of skin. Urea is an emollient, which means it helps to soften and moisturize the skin.
Understanding salicylic acid: The keratolytic agent
Kerasal products rely on salicylic acid to treat a variety of skin conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent, which means it helps the skin peel. It works by breaking down the connections between skin cells, allowing the outer layers of skin to shed more easily.
Uses of salicylic acid in Kerasal
The salicylic acid in Kerasal products can treat conditions such as:
- Warts
- Calluses
- Keratosis
- Psoriasis
For example, salicylic acid can help remove the infected skin cells that make up a wart.
Precautions and considerations
It’s important to note that salicylic acid should be used with caution in children and teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. There’s a risk associated with using salicylic acid during a fever, especially if the child also has flu symptoms or chickenpox.
If you notice skin irritation or an allergic reaction, stop using the product. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Urea: The emollient and hydrating component
Urea is a type of emollient, which means that it moisturizes the skin, and is available in formulations such as Urea 20 cream OTC.
So, how does it work? Urea increases the amount of water in the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the skin.
Benefits of urea in Kerasal
Urea goes hand-in-hand with salicylic acid to treat skin conditions. It softens and hydrates the skin, which makes it easier for salicylic acid to get in there and exfoliate.
Urea also helps to improve the skin’s ability to protect itself.
Things to consider
Urea is generally safe for most people, but there are some possible side effects. You might experience mild burning, itching, or irritation.
Talk with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns about using urea.
How to use Kerasal
It’s important to always follow the directions on the product label or the directions given to you by your doctor. Don’t use more Kerasal than recommended, and don’t use it for any skin condition that hasn’t been properly diagnosed by a doctor.
When you’re ready to apply Kerasal, here’s what you do:
- Gently clean and dry the area you want to treat.
- Shake the Kerasal foam can well before each use.
- Turn the can upside down to dispense the foam.
For best results, use Kerasal regularly and consistently.
Kerasal: Warnings, precautions, and interactions
Like any medication, Kerasal has some things you should know before you use it.
Warnings
Because it contains salicylic acid, Kerasal is not safe for children and teens to use. Salicylic acid has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, in children and teens.
You also need to be careful to keep Kerasal away from your eyes, nose, mouth, and other sensitive body areas.
Precautions
It’s possible to experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction to Kerasal. If you notice redness, itching, or swelling, stop using the product and talk with your doctor.
Don’t combine Kerasal with other skin treatments, like wart removers, unless your doctor tells you it’s OK.
Potential interactions
Kerasal might affect the results of some medical tests. If you’re having medical tests done, let your doctor know you’re using Kerasal.
Also, don’t use hair styling tools right after applying Kerasal. The heat from the styling tool can cause burns if it comes into contact with Kerasal, so be sure to wash your skin well before using any heat-based styling tool.
Storage and Handling of Kerasal
When you’re not using Kerasal, make sure to store it at room temperature, away from any heat or moisture. And, most importantly, keep the canister far away from open flames or extreme heat. You don’t want that stuff exploding!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kerasal really cure toenail fungus?
Kerasal doesn’t “cure” toenail fungus in the sense of completely eradicating it. It’s designed to improve the appearance of the nail by softening and loosening the damaged layers, allowing antifungal medications (if used) to penetrate better. It can make nails look healthier, but it’s not a standalone cure.
Does anything really cure toenail fungus?
Yes, but it’s important to understand that “cure” can be a long and challenging process. Oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor are generally the most effective, but they can have side effects. Topical antifungals, laser treatments, and surgical removal are other options, each with varying success rates; some may also consider ingredients for healthy nails. The best approach depends on the severity of the infection.
What is the active ingredient in Kerasal Nail?
The active ingredients in Kerasal Nail are usually urea and lactic acid. These ingredients act as keratolytic agents, which means they help to soften and exfoliate the damaged keratin in the nail, making it easier to remove the affected layers.
Does Emuaid really work for nail fungus?
Emuaid is an over-the-counter topical treatment marketed for various skin conditions, including nail fungus. While some users report positive results, there’s limited scientific evidence to definitively prove its effectiveness against toenail fungus. Results can vary, and it may be more effective for mild cases or as a supplementary treatment.
Can you put vinegar directly on toenail fungus?
Vinegar, particularly apple cider vinegar, is a popular home remedy for toenail fungus. While it has antifungal properties, its effectiveness is not scientifically proven. It may help to inhibit fungal growth in some cases, but it’s generally considered a mild treatment and may not be sufficient for severe infections. Diluting the vinegar is recommended to avoid skin irritation.
The Bottom Line
Kerasal products use ingredients like salicylic acid and urea to exfoliate skin and hydrate it at the same time. This can help treat conditions like nail fungus, corns, calluses, and dry feet.
It’s important to follow the directions on the package and take all recommended precautions. If your symptoms don’t get better, or if they get worse, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional. Also, be aware of any potential interactions with other medications or products you use, and store Kerasal products as directed on the label.