Scalp Relief

This medication has 2 types of ingredients (emollient, keratolytic) that work together to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin (such as that caused by eczema, keratosis, xerosis). Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Emollients are substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and flaking. Emollients/moisturizers work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in the skin. Petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, and dimethicone are common emollients.

Lactic acid, salicylic acid, and urea are keratolytics. They increase moisture in the skin by softening/dissolving the horny substance (keratin) holding the top layer of skin cells together. This helps the dead skin cells fall off and helps the skin keep more water in. Higher strengths of urea are used to treat corns, callous, and some nail problems (e.g., ingrown nails). Urea is also used to help remove dead tissue in some wounds to help wound healing.

Use this product as directed. Follow all directions on the product package and prescription label. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Some products need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the affected areas of the skin, usually 1-3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Rub in well until absorbed. How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition.

Apply to the skin/nails only. Avoid sensitive areas such as your eyes, lips, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area, unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product (e.g., on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Most moisturizers need water to work well. Apply the product after bathing/showering/shampooing while the skin is still damp. For very dry skin, your doctor may instruct you to soak the area before using the product. Long, hot, or frequent bathing/washing can worsen dry skin.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Burning, itching, stinging, redness, or irritation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusual changes in the skin (e.g., blistering, peeling, turning white/soft/soggy from too much wetness), signs of skin infection.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of the ingredients (e.g., urea, lactic acid) in the product; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: skin cuts/infections/sores.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Check the label for any warnings or ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take any special precautions when in the sun. Your doctor/pharmacist may suggest that you limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

Some products may stain/discolor clothing. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding, especially if you are applying this product to the breast area.

Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Some products (such as foams) may be flammable. Do not store or use flammable products near an open flame. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription, skin care, and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use more often to catch up.

Do not share this medication with others.

Some ways to help prevent dry skin include using lukewarm (not hot) water when bathing, taking baths/showers less often (e.g., every 1-2 days), keeping baths/showers short, and using a humidifier when the air is very dry.