Here Are Five Gold Standard Acne Treatments!

 

Retinoids, Tazarotene

What is tazarotene?

Tazarotene is similar to tretinoin because they are both retinoids (vitamin A’s) that function similarly. However, the most stark difference is their potency, and in some ways, their side effects. 

Both reduce acne lesions by binding to certain receptors in the skin and speeding up how fast the skin sheds its top layer of skin. Moreover, they help prevent breakouts by allowing them to push contents more quickly to the surface.

“Tazarotene 0.1% is the strongest retinoid currently available and has been shown to work faster and more effectively for sun-damaged skin in some studies” (Patricia Weiser, PharmD). 

However, tazarotene has been said to work slightly faster. Some studies suggest that higher strength tazarotene (0.1%) has slightly better results than tretinoin 0.1%. However, higher strength of tazarotene is associated with more side effects. 

While both tazarotene and tretinoin cause photosensitivity, retinization, and some irritation at first, because of tazarotene’s strength, the side effects can be more intense for some. 

Retinoids are often prescribed for cystic and nodular acne.

Read more about the difference between nodules and cysts here. 

Read more about how retinoids work and their effects.

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion

This is one of the most potent retinoids that you can get over the counter. For a vitamin A prescription, you can visit dermatica. Use sparingly. Dermatologists recommend using a peace sized amount for the entire face. Then, apply an SPF.

 

Salicyllic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that dissolves oil inside of pores and also helps dissolve the sticky and oily lipid bonds between dead skin cells. Using a salicylic acid cleanser can definitely help keep pores clear since it penetrates deeply.

Salicylic acid is widely seen as a wonderful OTC option for mild, moderate acne, and excessive sebum production (oily skin), and it definitely works for Cassandra. 

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser

$13

 

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial because once it comes into contact with the skin, its bonds break, releasing oxygen. Oxygen kills acne bacteria so benzoyl peroxide can be a great first line of treatment for acne. Cassandra started with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide to minimize irritation. Spot application worked well for targeted breakouts. Consistency was key, as results became visible over several weeks.

Now, she uses spot application for her targeted breakouts. 

“Research supports benzoyl peroxide as an effective first-line treatment for acne. Studies also suggest lower concentrations (2.5–5%) are as effective as higher concentrations (10%) but with reduced irritation.”

Acne Free Adapalene Gel  

$9.97

 

 

Oral Medications

Dermatologists normally prescribe oral medication for individuals with moderate to severe acne. Oral antibiotics reduce acne bacteria and inflammation, and they are often combined with other treatments to prevent antibiotic resistance. 

There are also oral medications that provide hormonal therapy like birth control and spironolactone. These medications help with sexual hormonal imbalances and improve their ratios. Sometimes one type of hormone is more dominant than the other, or perhaps, one is lacking. In turn, acne can occur. 

Read more about oral medications

Read more about hormone therapies for the skin.

Customized Treatment Plans

Remember that acne treatments are not one-size-fits all, and treating acne is the safest when you take the guess work out. That means seeing a dermatologist or your general practitioner. Avoid trying potent OTC (over-the-counter) medications as well without speaking to a clinician, and definitely avoid trying multiple ones at the same time.

You don’t need to scrub your skin either. Without consulting a dermatologist, you’ll simply want to stick to a gentle cleansing routine, perhaps a hydrating serum that has one of the ingredients we spoke about, and a physical SPF.

You can also visit Dermatica to schedule a telehealth appointment with a dermatologist. Here’s how it all works. 

 

Read more for a gentle, K-beauty acne routine

 

Sources:

Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023;86(1):15-23. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2021.11.023.Link

Dreno B, Gollnick HP, Kang S, et al. Understanding innate immunity and inflammation in acne: implications for management. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2015;29(11):2013-2017. doi:10.1111/jdv.13190.Link

Oakley A. Salicylic Acid and Acne Treatment. DermNet NZ. Updated May 2023. 

Thiboutot D, Dréno B, Abanmi A, et al. Acne and antibiotic resistance: An update from the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne Group. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020;82(6):1513-1522. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2019.10.063.

Blasiak RC, Stamey CR, Burkhart CN. Hormonal therapies for acne vulgaris: A review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol.2013;6(10):19-23.Link

Layton AM, Eady EA, Whitehouse H, et al. Oral isotretinoin: Updated recommendations for severe acne management. Br J Dermatol. 2020;183(3):364-375. doi:10.1111/bjd.18959.Link

Smith RN, Mann NJ, Braue A, et al. The effect of a high-protein, low-glycemic-load diet versus a conventional, high-glycemic-load diet on acne vulgaris: A randomized controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2007;57(2):247-256. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2007.01.046.