Introduction
Acne vulgaris, or commonly referred to as acne/pimples, is a common skin disease. Acne vulgaris has a varied etiology which includes genetics, hormonal changes, bacterial growth, and other causes. Common sites of acne are the face, back, chest, and shoulders. In general, topical acne products work by suppressing the growth of acne-causing bacteria and/or their keratolytic properties, etc.
Common active ingredients in topical acne products
| Active ingredient |
Common side effects* |
| Benzoyl peroxide |
- Dryness, irritation, redness or peeling of the treated area
- Burning, itching or stinging sensation of the treated area
|
| Sulphur |
- Irritation of the treated area and dermatitis
|
| Azelaic acid |
- Dryness, irritation, redness, skin discoloration or peeling of the treated area
- Burning, itching or stinging sensation of the treated area
|
| Salicylic acid |
- Dryness, irritation, redness or peeling of the treated area
|
| Tretinoin |
- Redness and scaling of skin at the start of treatment (may improve after the first month of use)
- A transitory feeling of warmth or slight stinging may occur following each application of the drug
- Excessive use may cause the skin to become flaming red, chapped, and swollen
|
| Adapalene |
- Dryness, irritation, redness or peeling of the treated area
- Burning, itching or stinging sensation of the treated area
|
Antibiotics:
erythromycin,
clindamycin, etc.
|
- Dryness and irritation of the treated area
- Contact dermatitis (red, dry, itchy skin) can be due to irritation or allergy
- Bacterial resistance to antibiotics may arise
|
General Precautions*
- Do not exceed the length of treatment/dose as prescribed by a doctor or recommended by a pharmacist.
- Do not use if you have a known hypersensitivity to any ingredients in the products.
- Stop using the topical acne product immediately and consult your doctor if severe irritation or allergic reaction develops.
- Consult your doctor before using any topical acne products if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Consult or seek advice from a doctor before the use of topical acne products by children.
- Some topical acne products may produce severe irritation of eczematous skin; consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have eczema.
- Most topical acne products may cause photosensitivity; discontinue use if skin erythema (redness of the skin) develops.
Additional precautions when using topical acne products containing*:
- Sulphur: Do not use products containing sulphur if you are allergic to sulfa drugs.
- Azelaic acid: Patients with dark complexions should be monitored for early signs of hypopigmentation during azelaic acid therapy.
- Antibiotics: Inform your doctor if you have a history of hypersensitivity to an antibiotic.
General Advice on the Use of Topical Acne Products*
- Always follow instructions from your doctor or pharmacist; or use exactly as directed on the label/package inserts.
- Cleanse and dry the affected areas prior to application of topical acne products.
- Avoid getting benzoyl peroxide on your hair or clothes due to its bleaching effect.
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, mucous membranes and open wounds to avoid excessive skin irritation.
- Wash with large amount of water in case of contact with eyes. Consult a doctor if ocular irritation persists.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 to reduce the risk of sunburn, as most topical acne products increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.
- Do not use combinations of topical acne products unless directed by a doctor.
Storage
Topical acne products should be stored in a dry and cool place. Generally, they do not need to be refrigerated unless otherwise stated in the drug labels. Furthermore, drugs should be kept properly in places out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
* Information contained herein may not cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects.
Drug Office
Department of Health
Jan 2024
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