What are over-the-counter (OTC) acne medications?

Over the counter (OTC) anti Acne drugs are medical grade creams, gels or lotions you can buy without a prescription. OTC topical medicines are effective in treating acne when used regularly.

Important: All acne treatments will start working within 4 weeks but it may take up to 8 weeks before you see a noticeable improvement.

The most popular OTC topical medicines used for mild acne are:
[1] Benzoyl peroxide: kills the Acne bacteria and may also reduce sebum production.
[2] Salicylic acid resorcinol and sulfur: breaks down blackheads and whiteheads.
[3] Adalepene(Dfferin) - a recently approved OTC topical gel can be useful for the reduction of blackhead and whiteheads. Some studies show also some effect on inflammatory red Acne leasions.

To find the right acne treatments for your unique skin, take the free skin assessment by clicking here.