Over-the-counter products for acne are popular because they are easy to obtain, they come with easy-to-follow directions, and they help many people avoid a trip to the doctor. This is a major advantage for many who are not able to afford a visit with a dermatologist because of lack of insurance or other reasons.

Fortunately, these over-the-counter medications seem to work well for some people. If you have acne that is not extremely severe, you might want to try these products. Be aware, though, that some of them have been known to make matters worse occasionally. If that happens, you will need to see a doctor after all unless your symptoms subside on their own.

One of the most beneficial over-the-counter medications is benzoyl peroxide. It is one of the most effective treatments for acne. You can use a 5% solution of benzoyl peroxide to reduce Propionibacterium Acnes, the bacteria that leads to acne lesions forming.

You can use benzoyl peroxide on your face for years and you will never see a side effect except a little drying. Also important is that you will never develop a tolerance for it. It will work as well in three years as it does today. What is more, it usually works. It works as well as many prescription acne medications such as antibiotics, in fact.

Salicylic acid is the main component of many over-the-counter medications for acne. It is useful in removing dead skin cells. Since it is these dead cells that are clogging up the pores, it gives the pores a fresh start when they are removed.

When the pores are unclogged, the sebum can make its way out of the pores without being trapped where it comes out, under the skin tissues. Since it is not trapped, it will not become infected, and zits will be avoided. You can get salicylic acid in the stores as a makeup remover, or you can find it in medicated pads like Stridex or Oxy.

Sulphur is an ingredient in some soaps and other cleansing products. It is one of the oldest acne remedies. It is sometimes good at eliminating whiteheads and blackheads. Do not try it if you have cystic acne, especially if it is inflamed.

Using sulphur can cause loose skin cells to stick to the skin. That makes future outbreaks more likely. Therefore, it is risky using sulphur to treat acne. It also smells bad, and you might react strongly to it. You may even turn red and your skin may start to peel. If you use it, you should be careful with it.

An over-the-counter medication ingredient that is often teamed with sulphur is Resorcinol. This medication is used to break down skin that has become hard. This will uncover skin that is free of clogged pores. It will also foster quick skin regrowth.

Try over-the-counter medications based on your skin type and acne problems. If you have oily skin, try a gel. If you have dry skin, use a cream. For sensitive skin, use a lower concentration of any medication’s main ingredient. Do not try to solve severe acne by using over-the-counter medications unless your dermatologist recommends it. In some instances, over-the-counter medications can be quite helpful.