Acne treatment options - prescription or over the counter

Sadly, there isn’t one type of acne treatment that works for every single person and every single type of acne. Most sufferers find it most effective to use a combination of acne treatments and medication; this is because acne is usually down to a number of factors, and therefore only a combination of treatments will work.

Acne treatment can be divided into two distinct groups, those that require a prescription from a dermatologist or doctor and those that can be purchased over the counter.

Over the Counter Acne Treatment

These products are usually available over the counter from a pharmacy or even from some supermarkets. These creams, lotions and cleansers are used for mainly mild to moderate cases of acne.

Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient found in many over the counter acne treatments it works by reducing the amount of P.acnes (acne causing bacteria) as well as removing dead skin cells which prevent pores from becoming blocked.

Salicyclic acid is another ingredient found in over the counter products, it helps to correct abnormal shedding of skin cells as well as helping to unclog pores. Like, benzoyl peroxide, it needs to be used continuously otherwise pores will become blocked when you stop using it.

Tea tree oil is a good natural antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic and antimicrobial agent which can be purchased over the counter. It can either be applied directly to blemishes with a cotton bud or diluted with water and splashed over the face.

Get more information on Prescription Acne Treatment