Pimples & General

Do not use Benzoyl peroxide and Retin-A at the same time otherwise the Retin A will be inactivated. It

is usually applied sparingly at bedtime and washed off the next morning while Benzoyl peroxide is

applied in the morning.

Differin (Adapalene)

Works to prevent comedones by making the cells lining the hair follicle less sticky thereby preventing

the pores from plugging up plus it has a significant effect on reducing inflammation. It's good for treating

blackheads, whiteheads and some cystic acne.

Differin is less irritating than Retin A and does not cause sensitivity to sunlight. Expect improved results

in 4 to 6 weeks.

Results from a research study have shown that Clindamycin topical lotion applied twice daily in

conjunction with Differin produced a significantly larger and faster effect on acne lesions than using

Clindamycin alone after only 2 weeks of use.

Accutane (isotretinoin)

Despite the side effects and the bad publicity this drug has gotten in the news, Accutane is one of the

best acne treatments for severe cystic acne resistant to other forms of treatment. It reduces sebum

production and the growth of P. acnes bacteria and normalizes the growth of cells inside the hair

follicle. Accutane is the only drug which affects all the main causes of acne formation. Blood tests must

be done on a periodic basis and women must not become pregnant because of the risk of birth defects.

Salicylic Acid

Works by loosening the plug of blackheads and whiteheads. Must be used regularly, like any of the

above products, in order to be effective. A study done in the Clinical Therapeutics journal showed that

salicylic acid is superior to Benzoyl peroxide in reducing the number and severity of acne lesions.

It comes as a cleanser, Super Skin Beta Hydroxy Acne Cleanser and for spot treatments on non-cystic

acne, D'Arcy Original Drying Lotion works well. Look for products which contain at least 2% Salicylic

Acid for good results. Products which contain 1% or less are usually combined with glycolic acid or

alpha/beta hydroxyacids to increase effectiveness.

The best acne treatments may involve a combination of different medications. It is sometimes rare to

find a single product which works well. You will have to experiment but please note that all products

take time to work. Expect results in 4 to 6 weeks of use. For an additive effect, it is best to use products

which work differently rather than 2 which does the same thing. Select those which dissolves

comedones, reduces inflammation, and kills P. acne.

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