Acne Treatment

Prescription vs. OTC

Prescription vs. OTC

You’ve no doubt heard about retinoids. They’re the skincare ingredients dermatologists consider a gold standard for treating acne and skincare gurus can’t stop raving about.

Adapalene

Adapalene

Adapalene is a topical retinoid medication prescribed by doctors and dermatologists for the treatment of acne. It has been around for over 20 years and over 40 million people around the world have used Adapalene.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial treatment that is considered to be one of the most effective acne medications.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is used to help exfoliate skin by removing the dead cells and debris that can clog pores. Originally derived from the bark of willow trees, its medicinal properties were first noted over 2,000 years ago.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is an ingredient derived from sugar cane that does a number of beneficial things for the skin. Glycolic acid is a commonly used alpha hydroxy acid.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring humectant. Humectants are substances that absorb water, and are commonly used to keep skin moist and hydrated. Other natural humectants include aloe and honey.

Sulfur

Sulfur

Sulfur is a substance that for thousands of years has been a popular way to treat acne and other kinds of skin inflammation. As early as 5,000 years ago the ancient Egyptians made a sulfur salve to treat acne and eczema. Traditional Chinese medicine also prescribed sulfur for skincare concerns.

Retinoids

Retinoids

Retinoids are, quite simply, forms of Vitamin A. Although retinoids differ slightly in chemical composition from Vitamin A, the terms retinoid and Vitamin A are often used interchangeably. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends topical retinoids as a first-line treatment for acne and they’re a preferred treatment for maintenance once acne has cleared.

Retinol

Retinol

Retinol is another name for Vitamin A, a vitamin found in food and dietary supplements. It plays an important role in the regulation of cell growth and healthy skin.