United Home Whitfield's Adverse Reactions

Topical salicylic acid + benzoic acid is generally well tolerated when used as directed. Undesirable effects are most likely to occur when the medicine is used in young children, in patients with impaired liver or kidneys, on broken or inflamed skin, in high concentrations, over large skin areas, prolonged use, and/or presence of occlusion (i.e., application on skin folds, use of plastic bandages or dressings that prevent air from circulating to the area being treated).
The following undesirable effects have been observed after topical application: Salicylic acid: Local irritation, skin inflammation, signs of salicylate toxicity (e.g., thirst, tinnitus or ringing in the ears, loss of hearing, headache, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, depression and disorientation) and allergic reactions including itchy rash, anaphylaxis and erythema multiforme (skin reaction characterized by small, red skin elevations or blisters arranged around a common center).
Benzoic acid: Irritation, itchy rash and allergic reactions.