There are many OTC (over-the-counter) acne products available to treat mild to severe acne and breakouts. These treatment products typically include moisturizers, cleansers and washes, lotions, pads and wipes, masks, astringents and spot treatments. With so many choices available, it is important to understand their active ingredients and how they work in order to determine what products are best for you.
Benzoyl Peroxide
This popular OTC product works by reducing P.acnes (a bacterium, which is a normal resident on the skin that multiply inside clogged hair follicles when the sebum is trapped) and by removing dead skin cells in order to stop acne lesions from appearing. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, benzoyl peroxide was one of the first most effective treatments used in fighting acne. It is available for use in strengths of 2.5 to 10 percent. Neutrogena On-the-Spot is a popular product containing benzoyl peroxide.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
The two types of alpha hydroxy acids are glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are used in many OTC acne treatments. These acids come from fruits that contain sugar. According to MayoClinic, they fight off acne by reducing inflammation on the skin and removing dead skin cells. Alpha hydroxy acids also helps in stimulating the growth of smoother skin, which helps in reducing acne scars if you suffer from them. Neutrogena Face Lotion is a multi-vitamin facial lotion that contains alpha hydroxy acid.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is used in order to stop the shedding of skin cells inside hair follicles, which stops the pores from clogging and creating acne on the skin. It breaks down blackheads (clogged pores that are open and have a dark top) and whiteheads (clogged pores that do not have an opening). OTC acne products with salicylic acid are available in strengths of 0.5 to 2 percent. Stridex Essential Pads and Clearasil Clearstick both contain salicylic acid.
Alcohol and Acetone
These two ingredients can be found together in some OTC acne products. Acetone works as a degreasing agent, and alcohol has mild antimicrobial properties. When acetone is used alone, it has no effect in treating acne, so it must always be combined with alcohol in order to work properly. Tyrosum Liquid Acne Skin Cleanser and Glytone Acne Treatment Toner contain both these ingredients.
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