Salicylic acid topical can cause a serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, itching, feeling light-headed, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Also stop using salicylic acid topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, stinging, peeling, dryness, or irritation after using this medicine. Common side effects may include: minor skin irritation, rash, itching, stinging, dryness; or color changes in treated skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.