Acne Medication: What Works and What to Try First

Dealing with acne is frustrating, but you don't need to try every product out there. This guide breaks down common acne medications, when to use them, how to avoid problems, and how to get them safely. I’ll keep it simple and practical so you can make better choices quickly.

Top acne medications — what they do

Benzoyl peroxide: Great for killing acne bacteria and unclogging pores. Use it as a 2.5–10% gel or wash. Expect dryness and some irritation at first.

Salicylic acid: An over-the-counter acid that helps clear pores and reduce oil. It’s gentler than benzoyl peroxide for many people and works well in cleansers and spot treatments.

Topical retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin): These speed up cell turnover so pimples don’t form. Start slowly—use every other night and build up. They make skin more sensitive to sun, so sunscreen is a must.

Topical antibiotics (clindamycin): Often combined with benzoyl peroxide to reduce resistance. These help inflamed acne but usually aren’t used alone for long periods.

Oral antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline): Used for moderate to severe inflammatory acne. They cut down bacteria and inflammation. Doctors usually limit use to a few months to avoid antibiotic resistance.

Hormonal treatments (birth control pills, spironolactone): For people with hormonal acne, especially adult women, these can reduce oil production and clear breakouts. Spironolactone needs a doctor’s prescription and monitoring.

Isotretinoin (Accutane): The most powerful option for severe or scarring acne. It can clear acne long-term but has serious side effects and strict pregnancy rules. Only use under specialist care.

How to use meds safely & where to buy

Start with the least aggressive option that fits your acne. For mild acne try benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. If that fails after 6–12 weeks, see a doctor for prescription options. Don’t layer active ingredients without guidance—too much can cause irritation and make acne worse.

When using retinoids or acids, always apply sunscreen in the morning. For oral meds, follow dosing and checkups—some require blood tests. Patch-test new products on a small area to watch for allergic reactions.

Thinking of buying meds online? Use a verified pharmacy, require prescriptions when needed, and check reviews and contact info. Our site, CanadianPharmacyService.com, offers guidance on safe online pharmacies and how to spot scams.

If your acne is painful, cystic, or leaving scars, see a dermatologist. They can prescribe the right medicine, monitor side effects, and suggest procedures that help faster than DIY approaches.

Quick checklist: give treatments time (6–12 weeks), avoid overwashing, use sunscreen, patch-test new products, and get professional help for severe acne. Clearer skin takes patience, but the right medication and routine make a big difference.