What do dermatologists recommend for acne

The following tips from dermatologists can help you get started. If you have severe acne, you'll need a dermatologist to help clear your skin.

Acne products you can buy at the store won't clear severe acne. Try 1 or 2 products, and give them time to work. Trying too many products can stress your skin, worsening acne.

Using only some of the acne treatment that your dermatologist prescribes could be the reason you still have acne. Our Location. Azelaic acid is available in some OTC skin care products in smaller amounts.

It works by clearing the pores of bacteria, which is usually the cause of acne, and reducing skin inflammation associated with acne. It can reduce the number of blemishes and minimize the appearance of acne scars. Some users report that the formula is effective on active breakouts but can result in pilling. It is available at higher strength as a prescription, which would be even more effective. Evans generally recommends some form of topical medication or skin care for all people with acne, including skin care products that contain salicylic acid, which targets the inflammatory component of acne.

While salicylic acid is usually formulated in cleansers, this exfoliant is a leave-on product that sheds built-up layers of skin. Since this formula is gentle, it may be ideal for people with acne who are new to exfoliating with BHAs. It can also be used up to twice a day in your morning and evening skin care routine. However, starting slowly is recommended. Salicylic acid may increase sensitivity to the sun, so daytime applications should be followed up with SPF.

A spot treatment can be an effective part of improving acne. Drying formulas dry up active breakouts and draw out impurities from the skin, which are more beneficial for treating current acne than preventing future breakouts. Evans notes that OTC skin care products containing active ingredients like sulfur and salicylic acid can be helpful in treating acne. This award-winning spot treatment by Mario Badescu contains both.

To apply, avoid shaking the bottle. Separation in the formula is expected. Dip a clean cotton swab into the sediment at the bottom of the bottle. Let dry overnight and rinse in the morning.

Both oral and topical antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe types of acne. It is suitable for inflammatory and cystic acne. Clindamycin phosphate works by stopping the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. This results in fewer acne lesions over time. In more severe cases of acne, your dermatologist may prescribe 1 percent clindamycin phosphate gel or lotion. You may purchase clindamycin phosphate with a prescription at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, and through services like GoodRx.

Cystic acne is an especially uncomfortable form of inflammatory acne. While benzoyl peroxide has been a proven contender against inflammatory acne, OTC spot treatments alone may not clear up cystic acne entirely. In conjunction with dermatologist visits, products containing benzoyl peroxide can be an effective part in treating acne.

Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that weakens the bonds that hold together dead skin cells, which can clog pores. This may result in fewer skin cells since there are less skin cells on the surface that can end up in hair follicles. Glycolic acid is available in a variety of OTC product types, including cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and more.

It works by decreasing oil production that can lead to the formation of acne. Since isotretinoin is associated with serious side effects, it should only be used as advised by a medical professional. You may purchase isotretinoin with a prescription at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, and through services like GoodRx. Rather, they suggest pairing products that contain stronger actives with gentler, nonirritating ones. Four of the dermatologists we spoke to say that integrating a retinoid into your skin-care routine is essential to preventing cysts.

Samer Jaber, the founder of Washington Square Dermatology. Differin gel contains Adapalene, a medication that decreases inflammation, prevents new acne from forming, improves blackheads, and helps improve discoloration, he explains. Zeichner says you can use a pea-size amount and start applying it every other night as your skin gets adjusted to it.

Differin also has a benzoyl peroxide face wash that comes recommended by Dr. Claire Chang of Union Square Dermatology. The benzoyl peroxide helps to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria, which is helpful to both treat and prevent new breakouts. Two dermatologist name-checked this cleanser from La Roche-Posay, including Dr.

Unlike some salicylic acid cleansers, which can be drying, this one delivers the actives via a hydrating vehicle that cleanses without drying out your skin. For best results, Hartman recommends leaving the cleanser on after you work it in.

He does warn, however, that too long can increase the chances of dryness and irritation, and suggests letting it sit for about 30 seconds. Hadley King. It also has soy extracts, which helps to reduce discoloration and helps with overall tone. If your routine already includes lots of topical products with active ingredients like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, a milder cleanser may be a better choice in order to prevent further skin irritation, according to Dr.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. If over-the-counter products aren't working for you, consider seeing a dermatologist or your general practitioner who can help you explore other treatment options, including prescription medications. For adult women, birth control pills with low-dose estrogen and progesterone are often helpful, says Melanie Palm , MD, a dermatologist in San Diego.

Ready to take the first step in getting your acne under control? Below, top dermatologists share their favorite skin care products for acne-prone skin. There's also glycolic acid, a popular type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid , which leads to more even-toned skin and Lipo Hydroxy Acid, which removes excess oil, leaving your skin shine-free. It's suitable for most skin types — acne-prone, oily, combination and sensitive — because it's free of oils, fragrances and parabens.

Those with dry or normal skin might find this gel cleanser too dehydrating for regular use. With 2. The cleanser also contains glycerin, a hydrating ingredient. Cleanse your face twice daily with Samolitis's pick. MicroClear technology combines 2-percent salicylic acid with oil-dissolving ingredients, unclogging pores and preventing acne-causing buildup. Neutrogena says those with mild to moderate acne will see results within 24 hours because the proprietary technology helps push the ingredients deep into pores.

This device will help you wash your face more effectively, says Palm. A timer tells you when to move on to the next area of your face. It also vibrates 7, times per minute to help remove oil and dirt in your skin, which helps to prevent future breakouts. Emmy M.