Acne
Medications used to treat acne.
What is Acne?
Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. These pimples form when hair follicles under your skin become clogged. Most often, acne appears on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. While anyone can develop acne, it is particularly common among teenagers and young adults.
Causes of Acne
The exact cause of acne is not fully understood. However, hormone changes, such as those that occur during the teenage years and pregnancy, likely play a role. There are many myths about what causes acne, including the belief that chocolate and greasy foods are to blame. In most people, there is little evidence that these foods significantly affect acne. Another myth is that dirty skin causes acne; in reality, blackheads and pimples are not caused by dirt. While stress does not cause acne, it can make the condition worse.
Why Treat Acne?
Acne is not a serious condition, but it can lead to scarring if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to manage acne effectively.
How is Acne Treated?
Treatment for acne includes gentle skin care practices, such as cleaning your skin gently and avoiding touching your skin. It is also advisable to avoid excessive sun exposure. In addition to lifestyle changes, a range of prescription medicines and creams are available to help treat acne.
When to See a Doctor
If you have acne that is persistent or causing you concern, it may be a good idea to see a doctor for advice on treatment options.
Medications used to treat Acne
Several classes of medication treat acne. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
Can anyone get acne?
Yes, anyone can get acne, but it is especially common in teenagers and young adults.
Does stress cause acne?
Stress does not cause acne, but it can make the condition worse.
Is it true that dirty skin causes acne?
No, blackheads and pimples are not caused by dirt.
What should I do if I have acne?
You should clean your skin gently, try not to touch your skin, and avoid the sun.
What are common areas where acne appears?
Acne commonly appears on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders.
Compare prices for acne medications
38 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Adapalene
- Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide
- Azelaic Acid
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Benzoyl Peroxide Erythromycin
- Benzoyl Peroxide Wash
- Clindamycin Hcl
- Clindamycin Palmitate Hcl
- Clindamycin Phos Benzoyl Perox
- Clindamycin Phosphate
- Clindamycin Phosphate In D5w
- Clindamycin Phosphate In Nacl
- Clindamycin Tretinoin
- Demeclocycline Hcl
- Erythromycin
- Erythromycin Base
- Erythromycin Estolate
- Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate
- Isotretinoin
- Minocycline Hcl
- Minocycline Hcl Er
- Minocycline Hcl Er Biphasic
- Norethindrone
- Norethindrone Acet Ethinyl Est
- Norethindrone Acetate
- Norethindrone Eth Estradiol
- Resorcinol
- Salicylic Acid
- Salicylic Acid Cleanser
- Salicylic Acid Er
- Salicylic Acid Wart Remover
- Silver Nitrate
- Silver Sulfadiazine
- Sodium Salicylate
- Tazarotene
- Tetracycline Hcl
- Tretinoin
- Tretinoin Microsphere Pump
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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.