Topical preparations for acne
Various gels, lotions, and creams are used to treat acne. Different preparations work in different ways. The following briefly describes the different types. However, always read the leaflet in the packet, because such things as 'how to apply it', and 'precautions' vary between different preparations. One general point is that you should apply topical treatments to all the affected area of skin, and not just to each spot.
Benzoyl peroxide
This is a common topical treatment. It has three actions - it kills bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps to unplug blocked pores. Therefore it often works well to clear inflamed spots and helps to clear blackheads and whiteheads. You can buy benzoyl peroxide at pharmacies without a prescription. It comes in different brand names and strengths - there is a 2.5%, 4%, 5%, and 10% strength. Benzoyl peroxide:
- works best if you wash the skin 20-30 minutes before using.
- may bleach hair, bed-linen, or clothes that come into contact with it.
- commonly causes mild skin irritation. If your skin does become irritated then stop using it until the irritation goes. Then try again with a lower strength, or reduce the time it is left on your skin before washing off. To prevent skin irritation, the following may help.
*use the lowest strength at first. In many cases the 2.5% preparation works just as well as the 10% preparation, but causes the least irritation. If you wish to increase the strength, do it gradually.
*use a water based preparation (rather than an alcohol based one).
*apply once daily at first, and wash off after several hours.
*gradually increase the length of time left on the skin.
*aim to put on twice-daily when you get used to it.
Retinoids
These are good at unplugging blocked pores. They include adapalene, tretinoin, and isotretinoin, which come in various brand names. They also have some effect on reducing inflammation. Therefore, one is often used early on in acne to help to unblock pores and to treat blackheads or whiteheads (comedones) and mildly inflamed spots. You need a prescription for all retinoid preparations. When you use a topical retinoid:
- You may develop some skin redness and skin peeling. This tends to settle over time.
- The spots sometimes get a little worse before improving.
- Your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it is best to apply at night and wash off in the morning. A sun protection cream may also help if you are out in the sun.
- The most common side-effects are burning, irritation, and dryness. Therefore, you may be advised at first to use a low strength, less frequent applications, and for a shorter duration.
- You should not be pregnant, or intend to become pregnant, as there is a slight risk of harm to unborn babies. Discuss contraception with your doctor if necessary.
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