Many people think acne only happens in teenage years. On the contrary, it can continue well into adulthood which is why there is adult acne.
And, if you’re currently dealing with adult acne, you will agree with us that it can be really frustrating. See what might have caused your adult acne on this page: https://onefaceclinic.com/the-attack-of-adult-acne-im-already-in-my-30s-and-40s-why-do-i-still-have-troubling-active-acne-on-my-face/.
Many people find adult acne incredibly frustrating because unlike teen acne, adult acne often lasts longer and is harder to treat. Over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments are the first choice for many people.
They are not only easy to find but also promise clear skin. But do they really work? Can they completely stop breakouts? Or are they just a temporary fix?
Find the answers to those questions on this page including when to see a specialist for adult acne treatment in Singapore. If you’ve been struggling with acne that won’t go away, this guide is for you.
What Are Over-the-Counter Acne Treatments?
OTC acne treatments are products you can buy without a prescription. They include cleansers, gels, creams, and spot treatments.
Note that there are different types of acne. OTC products help control mild to moderate acne by reducing oil, killing bacteria, and unclogging pores. Most OTC treatments target surface-level acne.
They work best for small pimples and blackheads. However, they might not be effective for severe acne or deep cysts.
Unlike prescription treatments, OTC options have lower-strength ingredients. This makes them gentler but also slower to show results.
If you have recurring breakouts, OTC treatments might only provide temporary relief. Using these treatments without understanding your skin type can also cause irritation.
Some products may even dry out your skin and cause redness and peeling. This is why choosing the right adult acne treatment is important.
What is the Most Common Ingredient in OTC Acne Preparations?
When looking for the best OTC adult acne treatment, the first thing you will want to look for in these treatments are the ingredients. Different OTC products use various active ingredients and each one works differently.
The most common ingredients in OTC acne preparations are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids (adapalene), sulfur and tea tree oil. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria.
While it can help reduce inflammation, it may cause dryness. So, it is ideal that it is used under the guidance of a knowledgeable skin or cosmetic doctor. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells.
It works well for blackheads and whiteheads. Retinoids speeds up skin renewal. When used as directed for adult acne treatment, they can reduce the acne and fade dark spots over time.
Sulfur absorbs oil and also has antibacterial properties. You may be recommended sulfur as an adult acne treatment if you have sensitive skin.
Tea tree oil is a natural remedy with anti-inflammatory effects. While it works for some, results are not always consistent.
These ingredients help with mild acne but are often not strong enough for stubborn breakouts. If you have deep, painful acne, it may help to consider stronger treatments.
So, is it Worth it to Use OTC Treatments for Adult Acne?
Many people opt for OTC adult acne treatments because they’re easily accessible and also often cheap. Just to be sure that you’re making the best decision for your condition, you may be curious to ask; is it worth it to use OTC treatments for adult acne?
The answer is yes, and no. OTC acne treatments can help for those with adult acne. However, they have limits. In fact, OTC treatments for adult acne work best for small pimples, blackheads, and occasional breakouts. Many adults find them ineffective for controlling persistent acne.
One reason why many people OTC treatments not effective for controlling adult acne is that this type of acne is often hormonal. This means breakouts are triggered by internal factors like stress or hormone changes. OTC treatments only work on the skin’s surface. They don’t fix the root cause.
Another problem is skin irritation. Many OTC products contain harsh ingredients.
Overusing them can lead to dryness, redness, or peeling. Some people even develop resistance to certain treatments, something which makes them less effective over time.
Results can also take a long time. While some people see improvements within weeks, others may struggle for months with little change.
When Should I See a Doctor about Adult Acne?
You don’t have to suffer through acne alone. OTC treatments are not always enough, especially for stubborn breakouts. Here are signs that you should see a doctor about adult acne:
- Your acne doesn’t improve after 6–8 weeks of OTC use.
- You have deep, painful cysts that don’t go away.
- Your acne leaves dark spots or scars, making your skin uneven.
- Your breakouts worsen suddenly, which may indicate a medical issue.
- Your confidence is affected, and acne is impacting your daily life.
Dermatologists offer treatments that go beyond what OTC products can do. They can create a plan tailored to your skin type and acne severity.
In fact, unlike OTC treatments, professional acne treatments target both the symptoms and the causes. Dermatologists can offer:
- Prescription medications that are stronger and work faster.
- Customized skincare plans based on your unique skin needs.
- In-office treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and extractions.
- Hormonal therapy for acne caused by hormonal imbalances.
These treatments provide long-term solutions. They help prevent breakouts instead of just treating them when they happen. If you’ve been struggling with acne for a long time, a specialist can help you find the right approach for the condition.
In Closing
Over-the-counter acne treatments can help with mild acne. However, they have limits. They don’t work well for severe, persistent, or hormonal acne. Many people waste time and money on products that don’t fully solve the problem.
If your acne doesn’t improve after a few months, it may be time to see a specialist. Knowledgeable skin and aesthetic doctors provide stronger treatments that work faster and prevent long-term skin damage.
So, you don’t have to struggle with acne alone. A professional can help you find a solution that actually works. The sooner you get expert advice, the sooner you can enjoy clearer skin. Book an appointment with an accredited dermatologist for stubborn adult acne treatment in Singapore below;
One Face Clinic – Pigmentation | Melasma Treatment | Acne Singapore
1 Tras Link, #02-01 Orchid Hotel Singapore, Singapore 078867
+65 6222 2262
