Top 5 Dermatology Acne Medications

Though acne can be a troubling condition, it can be treated with a number of over the counter and prescription topical medications.  Many products claim to have the magic bullet but here is a list of the top 5 dermatology acne medications which can be used to get rid of embarrassing teenage or adult acne:

• Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is the most commonly used topical treatment for acne.  It works by reducing comedone formation by reducing oil production within the hair follicle.  It may also help to kill bacteria contributing to the development of inflammation in the pimple.  Benzoyl peroxide is widely available in non-prescription strengths of 2.5 to 10% in creams, lotions, and topical solutions.  A concentrated prescription strength of benzoyl peroxide is available in soap form which may have better tissue penetration.  Benzoyl peroxide is also combined with other medications such as antibiotics in prescription products.

• Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is another common topical acne treatment.  It works by reducing the shedding of skin cells inside of the hair follicle.  Excessive skin inside of the follicle will contribute to the plugging of the pore and eventually cause a comedone which may develop into a pimple.  Salicylic acid may also help to break down formed comedones including whiteheads and blackheads.  It may reduce bacterial population on the skin surfaces which contribute to the development of acne. Salicylic acid is widely available in cream, lotion and topical solution form.  It is also a common ingredient in many cosmetic makeup products identified as acne fighting concealers and foundations.

• Resorcinol

Resorcinol is used topically to treat a number of skin conditions including acne, eczema and seborrheic dermatitis.  For the treatment of acne, it works in two ways.  It is a tissue penetrating medicine that helps to breakdown formed comedones such as whiteheads and blackheads by dissolving skin cells within the comedone.  It also has antiseptic properties and can destroy and prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin and within the hair follicle.  Resorcinol is available for topical acne treatment without a prescription.  Several topical products combine resorcinol with sulfur which has been used for many years because of its antibacterial activity.

• Vitamin A Derivatives

Prescription products Retin A (tretinoin), Differin (adapalene) and Tazorac (tazarotene) are synthetic forms of Vitamin A.  Vitamin A derivatives work by unplugging comedones that are already formed.  They also increase topical cell turnover allowing for new skin to form from underneath.  This may contribute to forming comedones rising to the surface faster to be eliminated.  Unplugging comedones will allow better penetration of other medications such as topical antibiotics or other products.  Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac are available in gel and cream formulations.

• Topical Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often very effective for acne treatment and work by killing bacteria that can lead to inflammation, pustule formation and eventual scarring. Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin are available in topical solutions and medicated pads.  A prescription will be required for use of topical antibiotics.

In order to ensure the effectiveness of any acne treatment regimen, you should be sure and take care of your skin by implementing a good cleansing routine.  Gentle but thorough skin cleansing with non abrasive cleansers is an essential part of any acne treatment program.

If you are a teenager or an adult suffering from this socially debilitating condition, whether mild or severe, these 5 top acne medications have been proven to work when combined with a good skin care plan.