OTC Medication for Acne
Various medications in the forms of gels, creams and solutions are available as OTC. But before using any OTC, the skin type should be assessed and then, the type of medication to be applied will be chosen.
If any doubts (especially pregnant women and women planning to get pregnant) consulting a dermatologist is always preferred before using any medication.
- Creams are best suited for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.
- Gels and solutions are appropriate for oily skin.
- Lotions can be used on any kind of skin.7
Most of the medications contain certain specific agents known as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoid analogs, azelaic acid and antibiotics.
These work by various mechanisms such as killing of the bacteria, decreasing the oil content in the glands or causing the skin to peel.3 These medicated creams or lotions may have to be applied regularly for a period of 4–6 months for maximum benefit.6 List of various medicines in the treatment of acne is as shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Medicines in the treatment of acne
|
Agent
|
Brand Name
|
Application
|
Side-effects
|
|
Benzoyl peroxide
|
Clearasil maximum strength
|
To be applied to affected areas once- or twice-daily
|
Drying of skin
|
|
Salicylic acid
|
Clearasil maximum strength cleansing pads
|
To be applied to affected areas once- or twice-daily
|
Skin dryness and irritation
|
|
Azelaic acid
|
Azelex
|
To be applied to affected areas once- or twice-daily
|
Skin dryness, hypopigmentation
|
|
Tretinoin
|
Retin-A, Avita
|
Apply small amount once-daily before bedtime
|
Skin irritation, sensitivity to sunlight, may worsen acne initially
|
|
|
Cleocin T, Clinda-Derm
|
To be applied to affected areas once or twice daily
|
Skin dryness
|
|
|
Akne-Mycin
|
To be applied to affected areas once- or twice-daily
|
Skin dryness
|
Next page: Prescription medication for the Acne
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 01, 2011