What are other topical medications?

Benzoyl peroxide – This treatment is usually sold in gels or lotions. It unclogs pores, dries out pimples, and kills bacteria. It does not affect sebum production or the way the skin follicle cells are shed, and when you stop using it, the acne usually comes back. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dry skin and can bleach fabrics, so take care when applying it. Consider wearing an old T-shirt to bed if you are applying it to your back or chest overnight.

Adapalene (Differin) – This medicine is a retinoid, a group of topical medicines derived from vitamin A. It affects the way skin cells grow and helps prevent clogged pores. It used to be only available by prescription.

Benzoyl peroxide and Adapalene are usually used together as a common starting point for acne treatment.

Alcohol and acetone – Alcohol is a mild anti-bacterial agent, and acetone can remove oils from the surface of the skin. These substances are combined in some over-the-counter acne drugs. These agents dry out the skin, have little or no effect on acne, and are generally not recommended by dermatologists.

Sulfur – In combination with other substances such as alcohol, sodium sulfacetamide (a prescription medication) and salicylic acid, sulfur is a component of many over-the-counter acne medications. It usually isn’t used by itself because of its unpleasant odor and temporary skin discoloration. Sulfur helps to prevent pores from being clogged and inhibits growth of bacteria. but it has only a marginal benefit in most cases. This is commonly sold as ingredients to facial soaps.

Topical retinol gel or creams – Retinol works to keep pimples from being able to form. It affects the growth of cells, causing increased cell turnover to unblock pores. Retinoids used to be available in only a prescription strength. Side effects of topical retinoids include redness, dryness, and itchy skin.

Azelaic acid – typically comes in a gel, cream or foam and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is more commonly used for another type of condition called rosacea, but it may help mild acne.

Herbal, organic, and “natural” medications – There are many herbal, organic, and natural products marketed to treat or prevent acne. The effectiveness of these agents isn’t widely proven. Notable examples are products that are pure or may contain cinnamon, honey, turmeric, tea tree oil, shark oil, neem oil, bentonite clay, or calamondin (Philippine Lime).