Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Benzoic acid has been traditionally used in combination with salicylic acid (commonly as "Whitfield's ointment") for the topical treatment of skin infections, including scabies. The formulation typically contains 6% benzoic acid and 3% salicylic acid. The rationale behind its use is primarily historical and empirical: benzoic acid is known for its mild antiseptic and antifungal properties, while salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent, helping to remove the outer layers of skin, which may assist in exposing and eradicating mites.

However, direct scientific validation for the efficacy of benzoic acid against Sarcoptes scabiei (the causative mite of scabies) is limited. Most modern clinical guidelines recommend other agents (such as permethrin or ivermectin) due to their well-documented efficacy and safety profiles. The evidence supporting the use of benzoic acid for scabies is largely based on older studies and historical usage rather than robust, contemporary randomized controlled trials. Thus, while it has been used for this purpose, the strength of evidence is weak and primarily rooted in tradition rather than scientific validation.

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