Skincare Ingredients for Acne-Prone Skin
Acne can affect people of all ages. For some, dealing with acne can be a source of embarrassment in their social life and can impact their general mood. Thankfully, there are many skincare products specially formulated to treat acne. In this article, we will talk about four key ingredients in skincare products that are particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic and a common ingredient in skincare products for acne-prone skin. It helps to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin’s surface and unclogs pores by removing dead skin cells. Benzoyl peroxide can treat current acne lesions as well as reduce future breakouts. It is particularly effective in treating inflammatory acne with red, swollen, and sore bumps (pimples).
Benzoyl peroxide is found in both over-the-counter and prescription acne products, such as cleansers, foams, soaps, gels, lotions, and creams. It is often the first line of treatment for acne-prone skin. Individuals may benefit from starting with a lower concentration first and gradually increasing to higher concentrations.
While generally well-tolerated by most skin types, benzoyl peroxide may cause itching, burning, redness, swelling, or peeling in some cases. If this occurs, discontinue use and consult your dermatologist.
Our Favorite Product: Village Dermatology’s 5% BPO Wash
Village Dermatology’s BPO 5% cleanser uses micronized benzoyl peroxide that penetrates the skin’s pores for a gentle yet effective cleanse.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells from the surface and reducing oil production. It is a common ingredient in anti-acne skincare products and works by unclogging pores to prevent breakouts.
Over-the-counter products generally contain 0.5% to 2% salicylic acid. Dermatologists can perform chemical peels with higher concentrations for more intense treatments. Salicylic acid helps with pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, redness, and hyperpigmentation.
Though generally well-tolerated, salicylic acid can cause mild irritation, such as burning or stinging, and may lead to dryness or peeling.
Our Favorite Product: Epionce Lytic Tx
Epionce’s Lytic Tx is a moderate-strength product that cleanses pores and improves acne-prone skin’s appearance while reducing redness without irritation. Shop it here.
Retinol
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative commonly found in anti-acne and anti-aging products. It exfoliates the outer skin layer, removing dead cells, oil, and dirt, and unclogs pores. Retinol also promotes collagen and elastin production, resulting in a softer, youthful appearance.
Retinol concentrations in over-the-counter products typically range from 0.25% to 1.5%. Starting with lower concentrations is best for sensitive skin, increasing gradually as tolerated.
Our Favorite Product: Alastin Renewal 0.25 Retinol
This product contains 0.25% retinol, perfect for sensitive skin, to exfoliate and stimulate collagen production. Shop it here.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic, lactic, and citric acids, are commonly found in acne skincare products. They help exfoliate the skin by shedding dead cells and clearing debris that can clog pores. AHAs are beneficial in preventing acne breakouts and improving skin texture and complexion.
Anti-acne products generally contain AHAs in concentrations under 10%. Dermatologists do not recommend using concentrations above 15% without supervision due to potential side effects, such as itching or inflammation.
Our Favorite Product: Neocutis Exfoliating Cleanser
This 9.9% glycolic acid gel cleanser removes impurities that cause acne and revitalizes skin without harsh sulfates or dyes. Shop it here.
Wrapping Up
We hope this article has helped you understand some of the popular skincare ingredients in acne products. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to contact our dermatology team or Skincare Specialists in our Skin for Life Boutique.