Acne medications work in different ways, and the best treatment depends on the type of acne you have, your skin type, your medical history, and your treatment goals. Some medications help prevent clogged pores, others reduce inflammation or bacteria, while some target hormonal causes of acne.
This guide explains the medications commonly used to treat acne, including how they work, why they may be recommended, common side effects, and important precautions. Use it to better understand your treatment plan and learn what to expect from each medication.
Quick Summary Guide
Not sure which medication applies to you? Use this table as a starting point. Your APNS provider will recommend the right treatment based on your specific situation.
| If You Have… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Blackheads | Aklief (Trifarotene), Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene, Salicylic Acid |
| Whiteheads | Aklief (Trifarotene), Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene, Salicylic Acid |
| Oily Skin | Salicylic Acid, Sulfur, Retinoids |
| Red Inflamed Pimples | Benzoyl Peroxide, Clindamycin, BenzaClin, Dapsone, Winlevi (Clascoterone) |
| Pustules | Benzoyl Peroxide, BenzaClin, Doxycycline, Minocycline |
| Hormonal Acne | Spironolactone, Birth Control Pills, Winlevi (Clascoterone) |
| Jawline / Chin Acne | Spironolactone, Birth Control Pills, Winlevi (Clascoterone) |
| Nodular Acne | Doxycycline, Minocycline, Isotretinoin |
| Cystic Acne | Spironolactone, Doxycycline, Minocycline |
| Acne Dark Spots | Azelaic Acid, Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene |
| Acne with Rosacea | Azelaic Acid, Ivermectin |
| Sensitive Skin Acne | Adapalene, Azelaic Acid, Sulfur |
| Active Acne Causing Scars | Retinoids, Doxycycline, Minocycline |
| Existing Pitted Scars | Microneedling, Laser Resurfacing, Subcision, Chemical Peels, Fillers |
Note: APNS does not prescribe Accutane (Isotretinoin). Please seek in-person care with your dermatologist for this type of treatment.
Medication Details
Adapalene
Summary
Adapalene is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.
Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.
How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.
How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.
Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.
Azelaic Acid
Summary
Azelaic Acid is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.BenzaClin
Summary
BenzaClin is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.
Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.
How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.
How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.
Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Summary
Benzoyl Peroxide is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Clindamycin (Topical)
Summary
Clindamycin (Topical) is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Clascoterone
Summary
Clascoterone (Winlevi) is a prescription topical antiandrogen used to treat acne vulgaris in adults and children 12 years of age and older. It works locally in the skin to reduce hormone-related oil production and inflammation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
May be recommended for patients with hormonal acne, jawline acne, or persistent inflammatory acne. It offers a topical alternative for addressing hormone-related acne without the systemic effects of oral hormonal medications.How It Works
Clascoterone blocks androgen receptors within the skin, reducing the effects of hormones that stimulate excess oil production and contribute to acne inflammation.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. A thin layer is typically applied twice daily to affected areas after gently cleansing the skin.Common Side Effects
May include mild redness, dryness, itching, burning, or irritation at the application site.Precautions and What to Avoid
Use only on intact skin and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and skin treatments you are using.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
There are limited human data regarding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before using Winlevi.Clinical Pearl
Unlike oral hormonal therapies such as spironolactone, Winlevi works locally in the skin with minimal systemic absorption, making it a useful option for many patients with hormone-related acne who prefer or require a topical treatment.Combined Hormonal Birth Control Pills
Summary
Combined Hormonal Birth Control Pills are commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. They may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Dapsone
Summary
Dapsone is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Doxycycline
Summary
Doxycycline is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Taken orally once or twice daily. Typically combined with topical therapy. Treatment is generally limited to about 3 months when possible to reduce antibiotic resistance.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Ivermectin (Topical)
Summary
Ivermectin (Topical) is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Metronidazole (Topical)
Summary
Metronidazole (Topical) is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Minocycline
Summary
Minocycline is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Taken orally once or twice daily. Typically combined with topical therapy. Treatment is generally limited to about 3 months when possible to reduce antibiotic resistance.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Salicylic Acid
Summary
Salicylic Acid is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Spironolactone
Summary
Spironolactone is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Sulfur-Based Treatments
Summary
Sulfur-Based Treatments are commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. They may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Tazarotene
Summary
Tazarotene is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Trifarotene
Summary
Trifarotene (Aklief) is a prescription topical retinoid used to treat acne vulgaris on the face and trunk (chest, shoulders, and back). It helps reduce clogged pores, inflammatory lesions, and the formation of new acne by promoting healthy skin cell turnover.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Often recommended for patients with blackheads, whiteheads, or inflammatory acne affecting the face or larger body areas such as the chest, shoulders, and back. It may be selected when a topical retinoid is appropriate for long-term acne management.How It Works
Trifarotene is a topical retinoid that helps normalize skin-cell turnover, prevents clogged pores, and reduces inflammation associated with acne.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. A thin layer is typically applied once daily to clean, dry skin while avoiding the eyes, lips, and other sensitive areas.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, redness, peeling, burning, stinging, itching, or increased sensitivity to sunlight, particularly during the first several weeks of treatment.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen daily. Avoid combining with harsh cleansers, abrasive products, or other irritating topical medications unless directed by your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Topical retinoids are generally not recommended during pregnancy because of potential fetal risk. Discuss pregnancy, plans for pregnancy, or breastfeeding with your healthcare provider before using Aklief.Clinical Pearl
Like other topical retinoids, Aklief may cause mild irritation during the first few weeks of treatment. Consistent use and regular moisturizing often improve tolerance while maximizing long-term acne control.Tretinoin
Summary
Tretinoin is commonly used in the treatment of acne or acne-related skin conditions. It may help reduce breakouts, inflammation, clogged pores, or acne-related skin changes depending on the formulation.Why a Patient Might Choose It
Chosen based on acne type (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, nodular/cystic acne, rosacea overlap, or acne scarring risk) and patient-specific goals.How It Works
Works by one or more mechanisms including reducing inflammation, decreasing bacteria, regulating skin-cell turnover, reducing oil production, or modifying hormonal influences.How It Is Used
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.Common Side Effects
May include dryness, irritation, redness, peeling, gastrointestinal symptoms (oral medications), dizziness, photosensitivity, or hormonal effects depending on the medication.Precautions and What to Avoid
Avoid combining with irritating skincare products unless directed. Use sunscreen when appropriate. Discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider.Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Safety varies significantly by medication. Some treatments should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.Clinical Pearl
Consistent use is often more important than choosing the strongest treatment. Most acne therapies require several weeks to months before full improvement is seen.Acne Medication Formulations
Many acne medications are available in multiple strengths and formulations. Your APNS provider will recommend the option that best fits your skin type, treatment goals, and preferences.
| Generic | Common Brand(s) | Available Strength(s) | Formulation(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adapalene | Differin, Adaclin (generic) | 0.1%, 0.3% | Gel, Cream, Lotion |
| Azelaic Acid | Finacea, Azelex | 15%, 20% | Gel (15%), Foam (15%), Cream (20%) |
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Benzac AC, PanOxyl, Neutrogena, Persa-Gel, generics | 2.5%, 4%, 5%, 5.5%, 6%, 8%, 10% | Gel, Cream, Lotion, Wash/Cleanser, Foam, Bar, Leave-on Gel |
| Clindamycin (topical) | Cleocin T, Clindagel, Evoclin | 1% | Gel, Lotion, Solution, Foam, Swab/Pledget |
| Clindamycin + Benzoyl Peroxide | BenzaClin, Duac, Onexton | 1%/5%, 1.2%/2.5%, 1.2%/3.75% | Gel |
| Clascoterone | Winlevi | 1% | Cream |
| Dapsone | Aczone | 5%, 7.5% | Gel |
| Doxycycline (oral) | Vibramycin, Doryx, Oracea, Acticlate, Monodox | 20 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg | Capsule, Delayed-release Capsule, Tablet, Delayed-release Tablet, Suspension, Syrup |
| Ivermectin (topical) | Soolantra | 1% | Cream |
| Metronidazole (topical) | MetroCream, MetroGel, Noritate | 0.75%, 1% | Cream, Gel, Lotion |
| Minocycline (oral) | Minocin, Solodyn, Dynacin | 45 mg, 50 mg, 55 mg, 65 mg, 75 mg, 80 mg, 90 mg, 100 mg, 105 mg, 115 mg, 135 mg | Capsule, Tablet, Extended-release Tablet |
| Minocycline (topical) | Amzeeq | 4% | Foam |
| Salicylic Acid | Numerous OTC brands | 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 6% | Cleanser, Gel, Lotion, Pads, Solution, Cream, Mask |
| Spironolactone (oral) | Aldactone, CaroSp | 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg | Tablet, Oral Suspension |
| Tazarotene | Tazorac, Arazlo, Fabior | 0.045%, 0.05%, 0.1% | Lotion (0.045%), Cream, Gel, Foam |
| Trifarotene | Aklief | 0.005% | Cream |
| Tretinoin | Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Altreno, Atralin, Avita | 0.01%, 0.025%, 0.04%, 0.05%, 0.06%, 0.08%, 0.1% | Cream, Gel, Lotion, Microsphere Gel |
Combination Acne Products
Some prescription acne medications combine two or more active ingredients to target multiple causes of acne with a single product.
| Brand | Ingredients | Strength | Formulation |
|---|---|---|---|
| BenzaClin | Clindamycin + Benzoyl Peroxide | 1% / 5% | Gel |
| Duac | Clindamycin + Benzoyl Peroxide | 1.2% / 5% | Gel |
| Onexton | Clindamycin + Benzoyl Peroxide | 1.2% / 3.75% | Gel |
| Epiduo | Adapalene + Benzoyl Peroxide | 0.1% / 2.5% | Gel |
| Epiduo Forte | Adapalene + Benzoyl Peroxide | 0.3% / 2.5% | Gel |
| Cabtreo | Clindamycin + Adapalene + Benzoyl Peroxide | 1.2% / 0.15% / 3.1% | Gel |
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