For moderate to severe acne, you may need oral antibiotics to reduce bacteria. Usually the first choice for treating acne is a tetracycline (minocycline, doxycycline) or a macrolide (erythromycin, azithromycin).
What do most dermatologists recommend for acne?
- Retinoids and retinoid-like drugs. Drugs that contain retinoic acids or tretinoin are often useful for moderate acne.
- Antibiotics. These work by killing excess skin bacteria and reducing redness and inflammation.
- Azelaic acid and salicylic acid.
- Dapsone.
What is the strongest medicine for acne?
Isotretinoin is a powerful drug that's used to treat the most severe cases of acne. Your doctor may recommend this drug if you have severe acne that doesn't get better with other medications, including antibiotics.
Do you put Topicals on before or after moisturizer?
If using Like Butter as a face mask, we recommend slathering it on after cleansing, and before any treatments, serums, and moisturizer. If using Like Butter as a moisturizer, it's best to apply it after all treatments and serums, in a thin layer on the skin.
When do you apply topical acne cream?
The combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide comes as a gel to apply to the skin. It is usually applied twice a day, in the morning and evening. To help you remember to use clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide gel, apply it at around the same times every day.
Do you put acne medication on before moisturizer?
You may be able to stave off the worst of it. If you've already succumbed to benzoyl peroxide-induced dryness and flakiness, slather on moisturizer as often as necessary. Definitely use it immediately after cleansing, just before applying your benzoyl peroxide treatment, and right before bed.
How do you apply topically to face?
- Use a gentle face wash.
- Apply moisturizer before your topical medication.
- Choose the right nighttime moisturizer.
- Use no more than a pea-size amount of your topical prescription.
- Ease into the routine.
What is the best acne medicine over-the-counter?
- 1) Benzoyl peroxide wash. Examples: PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash (about $12) or Neutrogena Clear Pore Facial Cleanser (about $7)
- 2) Adapalene gel 0.1% Examples: generic adapalene or brand-name Differin (about $13)
- 3) A good moisturizer with SPF. Example: CeraVe AM lotion (about $19)
Is there any over-the-counter medicine for acne?
The most effective OTC acne treatment products will contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. The former tackles mild to moderate acne, while the latter treats mild breakouts and blackheads. When used together, these ingredients deliver an effective "one-two punch."