Treatments for acne tend to be divided into topical products €“ those that are applied directly to the skin, and oral treatments €“ those that are swallowed. Typically, OTC products are topical, whereas treatments such as oral antibiotics are only available on prescription from a doctor.

As there is no cure for acne, treatments target some of the main causes of the condition. They may work to reduce the production of sebum in the skin's glands or they may speed up skin turnover so that pores are less likely to become blocked. Other treatments fight bacterial infection or minimise inflammation. All products take time to have an effect, so warn customers that they may have to wait up to eight weeks before their skin noticeably improves.

OTC topical treatments for acne tend to involve one or more of the following active ingredients:

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide helps prevent dead skin cells from plugging hair follicles and kills the bacteria that causes follicles to become infected. Benzoyl peroxide should be used sparingly (maximum twice a day). It can have a bleaching effect, so care should be taken when applying near hair or clothes. Common side-effects include dry, irritated skin; redness; and peeling. These are usually mild and should resolve once the treatment has finished. Benzoyl peroxide is usually available as a cream or gel. Common OTC brands include Acnecide Gel, Oxy on the Spot and Quinoderm Cream. Products come in different strengths, therefore customers should start with the lowest strength and work up, if necessary.

Salicylic acid

When applied to the skin, salicylic acid works to promote the shedding of skin cells to help prevent pores from becoming blocked. It may cause mild stinging, as well as skin irritation or dryness. OTC brands include the Clearasil range, Soap & Glory Dr Spot and certain Proactiv products.

Nicotinamide

Nicotinamide is as an anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps to reduce the redness and inflammation of acne lesions. OTC brands include Freederm Gel and Nicam Gel.

Other ingredients

Other ingredients include antibacterials such as chlorhexidine and cetrimide. These are sometimes included in cleansers as a soap substitute, e.g. Quinoderm Face Wash. Some products also contain sulphur, resorcinol or alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid.