Acne Treatment: What Works and What Doesn’t

What Works

1. Benzoyl Peroxide

Why It Works:

Benzoyl peroxide is a widely recommended treatment for acne due to its ability to kill acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to reduce oil production and prevent clogged pores, leading to fewer breakouts.

Best For:

Inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples)
Mild to moderate acne

How to Use:

Apply a benzoyl peroxide cream or gel directly to the affected areas once or twice a day.
Start with a lower concentration (2.5% or 5%) to minimize irritation.

Benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness and peeling, so it's essential to moisturize the skin while using this treatment.

2. Salicylic Acid

Why It Works:

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and reduces oiliness. It’s particularly effective for treating non-inflammatory acne like blackheads and whiteheads.

Best For:

Blackheads and whiteheads
Oily skin

How to Use:

Look for salicylic acid-based cleansers, toners, or spot treatments and use them regularly as part of your skincare routine.

Tip: Avoid over-exfoliating the skin when using salicylic acid, as it can lead to irritation and dryness.

3. Retinoids (Vitamin A Derivatives)

Why It Works:

Topical retinoids, such as retinol and tretinoin, are highly effective for acne because they accelerate cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and reduce inflammation. They also help with acne scarring over time.

Best For:

Moderate to severe acne
Preventing future breakouts
Reducing acne scars

How to Use:

Apply a pea-sized amount of retinoid cream in the evening after cleansing.
Start slowly (every other night) to allow the skin to adapt.

Note: Retinoids can cause initial dryness and irritation, so it’s crucial to use them alongside a good moisturizer and sunscreen during the day.

4. Oral Antibiotics

Why It Works:

For moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline can reduce the bacteria that contribute to inflammation and acne formation.

Best For:

Inflammatory acne
When topical treatments aren't sufficient

How to Use:

Oral antibiotics should only be prescribed by a healthcare provider and used for a limited duration to avoid antibiotic resistance.

5. Hormonal Treatments (Birth Control Pills and Spironolactone)

Why It Works:

Hormonal treatments work by balancing hormones that trigger excess oil production and acne, especially in women with adult or hormonal acne.

Best For:

Women with hormonal acne
Acne flare-ups related to the menstrual cycle

How to Use:

Oral contraceptives or spironolactone (a diuretic with anti-androgen effects) must be prescribed by a doctor for acne management.

What Doesn’t Work (or Has Limited Efficacy)

1. Toothpaste

Why It Doesn’t Work:

A common myth is that toothpaste can dry out pimples, but the ingredients in toothpaste (like baking soda) can be too harsh for the skin, leading to irritation and redness. It’s not formulated for treating acne and can cause more harm than good.

2. Scrubbing and Over-Exfoliating

Why It Doesn’t Work:

Many people believe that scrubbing their face will remove dirt and acne, but over-exfoliating or using harsh scrubs can irritate the skin, exacerbate acne, and lead to more breakouts. It strips the skin of its natural oils, causing it to produce more oil to compensate.

3. DIY Remedies (Lemon Juice, Garlic, etc.)

Why It Doesn’t Work:

While some DIY remedies, like lemon juice or garlic, may seem promising due to their antibacterial properties, they are often too harsh for the skin. Lemon juice can cause burns or irritation, while garlic can lead to allergic reactions. These home remedies are not clinically proven to treat acne safely or effectively.

4. Tanning

Why It Doesn’t Work:

Some people think that tanning or sun exposure can help dry out pimples. While it may temporarily improve the appearance of acne, the UV rays can damage the skin and worsen acne in the long run. Tanning also increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

5. Witch Hazel

Why It May Not Work:

Although witch hazel has some astringent properties and is often used as a natural acne remedy, it may not be potent enough to address moderate to severe acne. It can dry out the skin and, for some people, lead to irritation rather than healing.

6. Rubbing Alcohol

Why It Doesn’t Work:

Some people apply rubbing alcohol to their acne in the hope of killing bacteria. However, rubbing alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils, causing excessive dryness and irritation. This can lead to increased oil production and more breakouts.

What Might Work (Depending on the Case)

1. Natural Oils (e.g., Tea Tree Oil)

Why It Might Work:

Tea tree oil has proven antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce acne. However, it must be diluted before applying to avoid irritation. Other oils, like coconut oil, are comedogenic and may clog pores for some skin types.

2. Aloe Vera

Why It Might Work:

Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce redness and swelling. It may help with mild acne but is often not potent enough for more severe cases.

3. Honey

Why It Might Work:

Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can soothe irritated skin. It may help as a gentle treatment for mild acne, but it’s not effective for moderate to severe cases.

Conclusion

When it comes to acne treatments, it’s essential to distinguish between those that are clinically proven and those that may offer little to no results. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, and hormonal treatments are proven to work, while DIY remedies, harsh scrubbing, and myths like toothpaste are best avoided. For persistent or severe acne, seeking professional advice from a dermatologist is the best course of action.