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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Peroxide or a retinoid. There are also combination medications available: Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin) and BenzaClin (benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin).Topical antibiotics are applied directly to skin twice a day. One exception is a foam formulation of clindamycin 1% that is used once per day. On their own, antibiotics rarely cause side effects. However, because they contain benzoyl peroxide, Benzamycin and BenzaClin may cause itching, redness and burning. Azelaic acidAzelaic acid is an acid found in certain grains. It kills the bacteria that contribute to acne and helps exfoliate dead skin cells. It’s most effective for treating mild to moderate acne. It is available OTC as a gel or cream in a 10–15% strength and in a 15–20% strength by prescription.Your dermatologist will give you instructions on use based on the severity of your acne and any other treatments you may be using. Most often, it’s applied once or twice a day to clean dry skin.You may notice mild side effects at the beginning. The most common are tingling, burning or stinging. With continued use you may notice your skin is dryer and more sensitive. Benzoyl peroxideBenzoyl peroxide removes dead skin cells, dries up excess oil and kills bacteria. It’s most effective for mild to moderate acne. It is available as a body wash or cleanser for twice-daily use and as a lotion, cream or gel that can be dabbed directly onto individual blemishes or areas of breakouts. Prescription-strength formulas are also available.The most common side effects of benzoyl peroxide include a sensation of warmth, tingling or stinging upon application, and redness, dryness and peeling of skin with continued use.DapsoneDapsone, a prescription medication available under the brand name Aczone, has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has been found to be highly effective for treating moderate inflammatory and noninflammatory acne after 12 weeks of use.This potent medication is used sparingly; a pea-sized amount is applied in a thin layer to affected areas once a day. Side effects include dryness, redness, burning, peeling and oiliness. Rarely, it can have serious systemic side effects.Retinoids and retinolsThese medications are derived from retinoic acid (vitamin A). They exfoliate dead skin cells and promote the growth of new cells, which in turn push oil and debris out of clogged pores. They’re highly effective for treating moderate to severe acne. Retin-A is one example of this type of medication.Topical retinoids are available by prescription only. One exception is a retinoid-like medication called adapalene, which is available OTC as Differin, as well as by prescription in a stronger concentration. Retinols aren’t as strong as retinoids and are therefore available without a prescription. They are most effective for mild to moderate acne. At first use, retinoids and retinols can be highly irritating. Common side effects include burning or stinging, redness, itching, dryness and peeling. These tend to be more severe with retinoids. Because of the side effects, it’s important to use retinoids and retinols sparingly at first to allow your skin to adjust. A typical regimen is to
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