Acne Over the Counter Treatment Options

If you are considering an acne over the counter treatment product, this article will help you sort through the common active ingredients on the market today.

Self-treatment using non-prescription medications is most effective on milder cases of acne. When coupled with good skin care habits, over the counter products will usually clear up acne in a reasonable amount of time.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most popular acne over the counter treatment options. Used daily by millions, it is effective at treating mild acne by killing the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (or p. acne). It also helps get rid of dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

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Because benzoyl peroxide has been around for decades, its acne-fighting track record is well-established. So too are its downsides.

The most frequent complaint is over drying of the skin. This is why you should always start with a product that contains the lowest concentration of benzoyl peroxide, usually 2.5%. Remember that more is not necessarily better. If a low dosage works for you, stick with it. A higher dosage won't necessarily work better or faster and higher dosages increase the likelihood of excessive dryness.

Another downside of this particular acne over the counter treatment is that it can bleach the color out of fabrics. Be extremely careful when using it while dressed, as you could ruin your clothing.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is another common product that has been in use for a long time. It is a simple compound that has many uses, including being the active ingredient in aspirin.

Used properly, it is safe and effective. One caution is that you should not use it with other acne over the counter treatment products unless directed to do so by a dermatologist or other skin care professional. Doing so can result in excessive skin irritation.

Resorcinol

Resorcinol is another frequently used acne over the counter treatment medication that is most effective when used in conjunction with other compounds such as sulfur. However, avoid using it with astringents like alcohol.

Resorcinol works by helping to remove rough scaly skin, which in turn helps keep pores clear. Usually available in cream form, it also minimizes whiteheads and blackheads.

Alcohol and Acetone

Economically speaking, alcohol and acetone-based products are typically less expensive than those discussed above. But they are also typically less effective.

Alcohol works on two fronts: it has a slight antibacterial property and it helps remove excess oil from the skin. Acetone is a "degreaser" and also helps control oiliness. But while both compounds are generally safe, they work more on the surface of the skin rather than deep down where bacteria forms.

Be sure to closely follow the instructions in any acne over the counter treatment.  If your acne continues or becomes worse, you may want to visit your dermatologist to determine whether a prescription medication is needed. You should certainly discontinue use of any product that causes skin irritation.

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