Acne is a condition that commonly occurs in teenagers and young adults. There are many different treatments for acne that are effective. There are also hoax treatments that are ineffective and may cause more harm than good.
Here in this article, we will provide 11 acne treatments that really work. This information is backed by real dermatologists so that you can see success in your skin care routines!
So, let’s get started.
11 Acne Treatments That Really Work
1. Salicylic Acid
When it comes to teen pimples, salicylic acid is the go-to ingredient.
Salicylic acid reduces swelling and unclogs pores. In effect, pimples often decrease in size and eventually disappear.
Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory qualities for inflamed cystic breakouts caused by deep hair follicle obstructions that rupture beneath the skin.
It is suggested to use a salicylic acid based toner, moisturizer, or leave-on spot treatment. That way these will allow the active ingredient more time to have an effect on your skin.
2. Benzoyl Peroxide
This common ingredient helps unclog pores and kills acne-causing bacteria Cuti Bacterium acnes (C. acnes). But, be aware that it takes time to work.
However, sensitive skin may experience dryness, redness, and peeling. Benzoyl peroxide is generally safe for mild to moderate acne.
3. Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently removes dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Dead skin cells can clog pores and make the skin appear dull and feel dry.
After using a glycolic acid peel, you may notice your face feels moisturized and shiny!
4. Lactic Acid
Lactic acid, like glycolic acid, is an AHA that acts as a chemical exfoliator on the skin.
It’s milder than glycolic acid, so it’s suitable for those with delicate skin who want to use an exfoliating acid. Lactic acid is a humectant, meaning it attracts water and can hydrate.
5. Azelaic Acid
This grain derivative (particularly a dicarboxylic acid) decreases oiliness and irritation when applied to the skin. It can also help reduce redness and flushing and perhaps treat rosacea.
6. Niacinamide
This particular kind of niacin, a B vitamin, has lower inflammation and oil production.
7. Oral Contraceptives
Combination birth control pills can be recommended as part of acne therapy for transgender women.
Oral contraceptives provide hormones that reduce androgen circulation, reducing sebum production. This helps control oily skin and acne-prone skin.
8. Oral antibiotics
Oral antibiotics, like sarecycline or minocycline, are used to treat widespread or more severe acne. It also has less of an effect on the gut than other oral antibiotics do.
Minocycline, a prescription oral antibiotic, is also used to treat acne that is inflamed. It’s also available as a prescription for a cream that can be applied to the skin, which may have fewer systemic side effects.
9. Topical Retinoids
Retinoids, made from vitamin A, remove the top layer of skin to keep pores clear. This helps keep pimples from forming. In particular, they’re good for women who have acne, as well as fine lines and wrinkles on their skin.
10. Sulfur
There is a strong smell of rotten eggs that comes from sulfur. But it is very good at drying out pus-filled pimples and whiteheads. It works by taking the oil. If you want to get the most out of sulfur, you usually mix it with other active ingredients and add fragrances to hide the smell.
11. Bakuchiol
This plant-based extract is often marketed as a retinol substitute; however, it is not a retinoid. But in limited tests, Bakuchiol showed promise in improving skin texture and reducing fine lines—without the adverse effects associated with retinoids.
It is now used in products alone or combined with retinol to increase acne-fighting and anti-aging results without raising negative effects.
And there you have it! 11 Acne Treatments that really work. If you want to learn more, you can read our article on What Would A Dermatologist Prescribe For Acne.
