Nonprescription Treatments for Acne – So Many Choices!
When you go into your local pharmacy or retail store to select a product to treat your or your child’s acne you may be overwhelmed by the number of choices. Here is a quick guide to help you select a product that may work best for your acne issues.
What should I first look for on the label?
Look at the Drug Facts section of the label to see what active ingredients are in the product.
Here are some common examples of active ingredients and their action(s) to help treat acne:
- benzoyl peroxide: fights bacteria, removes excess oil and dead skin cells
- adapalene: clears pores and after acne clears, can lighten dark spots
- azelaic acid: fights bacteria, reduces pimple formation and inflammation
- salicylic acid: reduces clogged pores
- alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic acid or glycolic acid: remove dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, and advances the growth of new skin cells
What medications are best for mild acne?
Generally, you should first try a benzoyl peroxide or adapalene product. Start with a single ingredient product to see how your skin reacts and to rule out any allergies. Start with lower strength products and use only as often as directed to avoid side effects such as irritation or drying. You can then add additional products to best treat your acne.
Many products are available as combination products—those that contain more than one active ingredient. Combination products may be helpful to treat different causes of acne and make it easier to remember to use multiple treatments. But first you should make sure that you need all the medications listed and that you tolerate them in the strengths included in the product.
Follow the instructions for use and the amount recommended on the product’s label. It may take 8 weeks or longer to see results. Be patient and stick to your routine.
Does the type of product matter?
Acne products are available as creams, gels, lotions, soap, and cleansing pads. You should choose the type of product based on your skin type. If you have oily skin, then a gel product may feel less greasy. If you have dry skin, then a cream may provide more moisture to your skin. A lotion may work for either skin type or if it is a combination of dry and oily.
What else should I know about using acne medications on my skin?
Use only the recommended amount of medication, usually just a thin layer on the face or other affected areas on your body.
Be careful not to duplicate medication ingredients when using combination products as it may increase side effects.
Be careful in applying benzoyl peroxide as it can stain hair and fabrics such as clothing or towels.
When should I see a doctor about my acne?
The goals of acne treatment are to clear up existing acne, stop new breakouts, and prevent scarring. If your acne doesn’t improve after carefully following a skin care routine for 2 or 3 months, you should see a doctor or dermatologist (skin specialist) to evaluate your acne and make recommendations for treatment.
Summary
Selecting products to treat acne can be overwhelming. Be sure to ask your pharmacist to recommend products and answer any questions you have about how to use or apply them.