Hi everyone! I am Sarah, your fellow pharmacist from #therawsociety and in this article, I am going to tell you about the management of mild to moderate acne using drugstore products. Many of these products are available in the local pharmacies and other retailers without the need of prescriptions, and they include trusted skincare brands such as The Raw! Other than being pocket-friendly, these products are of high quality, effective, and generally safe to be used.
First of all, what is Acne?
Acne is a condition in which the hair follicles on the skin become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It is caused by several factors such as:
- Increased sebum production due to irregular secretion of hormones called androgens in the body.
- The proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes, a type of organism that resides on the skin.
- Altered follicular keratinisation, whereby the skin cells and sebum accumulate to form micromedones, which can cause acne lesions.
- Inflammation of the skin, triggered by the immune system that reacts against the bacteria on the skin, thus disrupting the follicular barrier.
Is Acne different from Pimples?
Acne is the condition, while pimples are one of the symptoms; a manifestation of acne.
Based on the Comprehensive Acne Severity Scale (CASS) used by dermatologists in Malaysia, acne is classified into three types: Mild, Moderate and Severe.
Mild and moderate acne are characterized by the predominant presence of comedones, papules and pustules on the skin, and the first line treatment is by using single or combination of topical agents.
Severe acne on the other hand, is marked by the appearance of nodules and cysts. People with such condition should consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and follow-ups, as topical formulations are insufficient to treat this kind of acne.
Now, I am going to suggest which products you can use to get those pesky and annoying zits out of your skin, once and for all! Bear in mind that these products are usually effective against mild to moderate types of acne.
According to the Ministry of Health Malaysia’s Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Acne 2012, topical therapy is the mainstay of treatment for mild acne. It is also useful for moderate acne where comedones are predominant.
Hence, the commonly used topical agents suggested by the guidelines are:
It functions as an effective bacterial-killing, keratin-removing and anti-inflammatory agent. Benzoyl peroxide is effective in reducing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. It is available in various concentrations (2.5%, 5% and 10%) and all are equally effective.
My Suggestions: Oxy 5, Oxy 10 Acne Pimple Medications, Benzac Gel 5
2. Tretinoin
Tretinoin is a type of topical retinoid- synthetic derivatives of vitamin A (Retinol). It has anti-comedogenic, comedolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions.
My Suggestions: Retin A 0.025% cream, Rectanyl Tretinoin 0.025% cream
IMPORTANT NOTES: Tretinoin is categorized under Poison Group C, which means that it is only available in clinics and pharmacies, and could only be sold by licensed pharmacists and registered medical practitioners. Pregnant women and those who are planning to get pregnant are not advised to use Tretinoin. Do get the consultation of pharmacists or medical doctors before using preparations containing this ingredient.
3. Salicylic Acid
It is a keratolytic agent which has been shown to be effective for mild to moderate acne. It has both comedolytic and antimicrobial properties. After 12 weeks of usage, salicylic acid effectively reduces inflammatory acne by 44%, and non-inflammatory by 19%.
My Suggestions: The Raw Salicylic Acid 1.5% Deep Cleanser, COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
3. Salicylic Acid
Sulfur has anti-inflammatory and mild keratolytic properties, and had long been used in the treatment of acne. The evidence on the effective use of sulfur by itself is insufficient, but the combination of sulfur with other agents had been proven effective in treating mild to moderate acne.
My Suggestions: The Raw Acne Spot Drying Solution, which contains 2% Sulfur, 1% Salicylic Acid and 5% Zinc Oxide. BioShield S Skin Solutions Anti-Acne Cleansing Bar.
Pro tips:
Since these topical agents could cause mild but temporary side effects such as dryness, peeling, stinging/burning to those with sensitive skins, it is advisable to:
- Apply a thin layer to the entire affected areas.
- Use a lower concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide at 2.5% to 5% rather than 10%.
There you have it, the 4 topical agents recommended to treat mild to moderate acne. Do not expect immediate results upon using these products, as consistency is the key to successfully eradicate the acne off your face!
As a precaution for further breakouts, keep your skin clean by regularly removing your makeup and thoroughly cleansing your face before going to bed. Keep your skin hydrated by wearing moisturizer and drinking lots of water. Do not forget to wear the sunscreen whenever you step out of your house!
Disclaimer: This article is meant for the treatment of mild to moderate acne, in reference to the Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Acne 2012. Results and side effects of the products may vary in different individuals. Any further concerns regarding your skin condition should be directed to a certified dermatologist.
