In over-the-counter products, the best ingredients to look for are adapalene, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting nearly 50 million Americans every year. Depending on the severity, it can be difficult to treat and often requires a combination of treatments
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the surface of your skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. It is one of the few exfoliating acids that is oil-soluble, meaning that it can get into your pores to eliminate acne. Salicylic acid can be found as a leave-on product or as a cleanser - both options are effective at treating acne.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that kills acne-causing bacteria, decrease inflammation, and helps to exfoliate the skin. Benzoyl peroxide can be found as a leave-on product or as a cleanser - both options are effective at treating acne.
Retinoids
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help speed up cell turnover, decrease skin cell “stickiness,” decrease inflammation, and control oil production. Adapalene is the only FDA-approved acne retinoid available over-the-counter. Use a pea-size amount over the entire face at night and wait 2-3 months to see results.
