An estimated 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 have at least minor acne breakouts from time to time. But what if you’re someone who has long-lasting breakouts, or who is still struggling with acne long after high school? If you’re someone who currently suffers from acne that isn’t showing any signs of getting better, you’re probably ready to try just about any prescription or over-the-counter acne treatment that could offer some relief.
Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter acne treatments that you can try. You may find that using one low-strength over-the-counter acne treatment product is enough to clear up your acne, or you may find that a combination of two different medications is most effective. The good news is that over-the-counter (OTC) acne medications have a relatively low risk of side effects, so you can try a few different treatments to figure out what works best with your skin.
Here are five common types of over-the-counter acne treatments that may help you.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Because it’s well-tolerated by most people, benzoyl peroxide is often a first-line OTC treatment for acne. This drug works by going straight to the source of the problem—it kills the bacteria that causes acne. It may also help certain topical prescription treatments, such as clindamycin, work more effectively.
Benzoyl peroxide is available as a generic drug and makes an appearance in many of the best brand name OTC acne medications; you’ll find it in the form of face washes, gels, creams, and pre-moistened towelettes. It comes in strengths ranging from 2 to 10 percent. It’s a good idea to start with a lower-strength product, as higher-strength products may be more likely to dry out your skin.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid exfoliates your skin; it causes dead skin cells to shed so that healthy skin cells can replace them. Like benzoyl peroxide, it comes in many different OTC acne treatment forms, including facial scrubs, cleansing pads, and creams. Some people find that benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid work well together because they target acne in different ways. However, keep in mind that using these products in combination may put you at a higher risk for dry, peeling skin.
Sulfur
Sulfur might seem like an odd ingredient for an acne medication, but sulfur-based products can significantly reduce acne-related inflammation. Sulfur is an antimicrobial, meaning it suppresses the growth of the bacteria that causes acne. It’s most commonly found in leave-on spot treatments (topical products that are applied to individual pimples rather than large areas of skin). It won’t directly treat the cause of acne, but it can bring down swelling and redness.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
When reading the labels of OTC acne treatment products, you might see lactic acid or glycolic acid, both of which are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Much like salicylic acid, AHAs help to remove skin cells so that your pores don’t clog and healthy skin cells can grow. Most topical alpha hydroxy acids come in strengths of 5 to 10% and are well-tolerated by most people.
Retinoids (Differin)
Most acne drugs in the retinoid class are only available by prescription, but one retinoid product—Differin—is now available over-the-counter. Differin gel 0.1% contains the active ingredient adapalene, which helps unclog pores so that other topical medications can work better. Retinoid medications such as Differin may cause your acne to get worse before it gets better; however, most people see a significant improvement within the first two months of use.
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| Differin is an OTC medication that can help unclog your pores. |
Not Sure What to Use? Talk to Your Dermatologist
There are a lot of OTC acne treatments on the market, and it can be hard to know where to start. Since there are multiple factors that can cause acne, there’s no perfect treatment for everyone, and what’s best for another person may not be best for you. To make sure you’re using the best OTC acne treatment option, visit a dermatologist and discuss your options. Your dermatologist may make a recommendation for a new over-the-counter product or may have you try an OTC drug in combination with a prescription one. It may take some time to find the right medicine combination for you, but sticking to a dosing regimen prescribed by your dermatologist should help clear up your skin.
