Gentle skin care and appropriate OTC topical treatments form the foundation of acne management. Prefer chemical exfoliants to abrasive scrubs, apply preventive treatments to affected areas rather than just visible pimples, and consider dietary changes like reducing high-glycemic foods if helpful. See a clinician when acne is moderate to severe, scarring, or unresponsive to consistent self-care; they can prescribe combination therapies, hormonal options, or systemic medications as needed.

Start with gentle daily care

Cleanse your face twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser suited to your skin type. Avoid overcleansing or harsh scrubs - stripping the skin can worsen acne by triggering more oil production and irritation.

Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer if your skin feels tight. Many acne products dry the skin; a non-comedogenic moisturizer helps maintain the skin barrier and reduces flaking and irritation.

Target blemishes and prevent new ones

For active pimples and to prevent new lesions, several over-the-counter options have solid evidence:
  • Benzoyl peroxide reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. Use as directed; it can bleach fabrics.
  • Salicylic acid (a BHA) helps unclog pores by removing dead skin cells.
  • Topical retinoids (adapalene is available OTC) normalize cell turnover and help prevent new comedones.
  • Azelaic acid (OTC and prescription strengths) can reduce inflammation and pigmentation.
Apply treatments as directed. Many clinicians recommend applying topical products to the whole affected area (not just visible pimples) because acne often starts beneath the surface.

Exfoliation: chemical over abrasive

Gentle chemical exfoliants (AHAs like glycolic, BHAs like salicylic) are usually preferable to grainy scrubs, which can irritate skin and spread inflammation. Patch-test new products on a small area before applying broadly, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Diet and nutrition

Research suggests a modest link between certain dietary patterns and acne - notably high-glycemic-load diets and possibly some dairy products. Adjusting your diet (reducing refined carbs and sugary drinks) may help some people, but responses vary. There's no universal "acne diet."

General good nutrition supports skin health. Routine supplements are not routinely required for acne; evidence for remedies such as MSM is limited, and you should discuss supplements with your clinician before starting them.

When to get professional help

If your acne is moderate to severe, leaves scarring, or doesn't improve after several weeks of consistent OTC care, see a dermatologist or primary care clinician. They can prescribe topical retinoids, combination therapies, hormonal treatments for those who qualify, or oral medications for more severe disease.

Clinicians will weigh benefits and risks when considering oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin, and may recommend monitoring for side effects.

You don't have to manage acne alone. Modern treatments - topical and systemic - are more effective than ever, and a clinician can tailor a plan to your skin type and lifestyle.

FAQs about Best Treatment For Acne

How often should I wash my face to avoid making acne worse?
Wash gently up to twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser. Overwashing or using harsh cleansers can increase irritation and oil production, which may worsen acne.
Do certain foods cause acne?
Some studies link high-glycemic diets and certain dairy products to acne for some people, but responses vary. Reducing refined carbs and sugary drinks may help, but there is no single "acne diet" that works for everyone.
Which over-the-counter treatments work best?
Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, topical retinoids (like OTC adapalene), and azelaic acid have the most evidence. Use them as directed and apply to the affected area to prevent new lesions.
When should I see a dermatologist?
See a clinician if acne is moderate to severe, causing scarring, or not improving after several weeks of consistent OTC care. A clinician can prescribe combination therapies, hormonal treatments, or systemic medications if needed.
Are supplements like MSM helpful for acne?
Evidence for supplements such as MSM is limited. Discuss any supplements with your clinician before starting them; they are not a substitute for proven topical or prescription treatments.

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