What Can I Use to Reduce Acne?

People are judged by their appearance, whether they like it or not. Acne affects social interactions and may even destroy intimacy. In some cases, it has a negative impact on employment and income potential. 

Everyone knows the basics of acne prevention: scrub the face with soap, eat less chocolate and zap pimples with antibiotics. Unfortunately, the common advice is often wrong. Acne is a serious matter for teenagers and adults, and the pressure is on to find effective treatments to reduce acne.

Over-the-Counter Ingredients

Most people do not need expensive medicines or topical products to treat acne. Simple solutions often work best. Over-the-counter (OTC) products are convenient to purchase and less expensive than prescription medications. However, the sheer variety of products makes it hard to choose the right one.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), many over-the-counter ingredients can treat the factors that cause acne. The key is finding them in a form that people like and will use as directed. Here are the most common OTC ingredients known to reduce acne. 

Bacteria-Killing Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that cause acne. Daily use of this ingredient can reduce flare-ups. Benzoyl peroxide is found in acne creams, gels, washes and pre-moistened cloths. When combined with prescription medications, it can improve their effectiveness. High concentrations can irritate the skin.

Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

Salicylic acid, also called beta hydroxy acid, removes dead skin cells that clog the pores. It is found in acne creams, washes, facial scrubs and cleansing pads. Used with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid is effective for acne control. Overuse can dry or irritate the skin. 

Sulfur for Spot Treatments

Sulfur is another effective over-the-counter ingredient for acne treatment. It suppresses acne-causing bacteria and unclogs skin pores. Sulfur works best for spot treatments that target single pimples rather than large areas of skin.

Other Supporting Ingredients

Some OTC ingredients support the work of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sulfur. Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and retinol are two examples. Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but some people find them too drying. Many creams, lotions, cleansers and cleansing cloths contain AHAs. 

Retinol is derived from vitamin A. It opens pores and gives the skin a radiant appearance. Retinol is a common ingredient in OTC and prescription products. It is also found in anti-aging products that treat adult acne. 

Over-the-counter products are effective for most people if they are used consistently. If they do not improve acne within eight weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe a more effective treatment. Doctor-prescribed treatments usually combine OTC products with prescription medications.