Used to treat mild, moderate and severe acne, the effectiveness of over-the-counter medications lies in the product’s active ingredient(s). Not all active ingredients work the same way. The active ingredient benzoyl peroxide reduces P. acnes(bacteria); whereas, salicylic acid helps correct abnormal skin shedding. For lesions to clear, the product(s) must be effective against the factor(s) causing the acne. The following describes common active ingredients used in over-the-counter acne medications sold in the United States. Check with your dermatologist or pharmacist before combining acne products.
Alcohol and acetone Found together in some over-the-counter medications used to treat acne, acetone works as a degreasing agent and alcohol has mild antimicrobial properties. When used alone, acetone tends to have no effect. Continue reading “Acne Over The Counter Products”
