7 best otc acne treatments
Over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments refer to products that are available without a prescription and are designed to help manage and treat acne. They typically come in various forms such as washes, cleansers, creams, gels, and spot treatments. Here are some common ingredients and types of OTC acne treatments:
Benzoyl Peroxide: This is one of the most popular and effective OTC acne treatments. It works by killing bacteria that cause acne and by helping to unclog pores. Benzoyl peroxide can be found in various concentrations (usually 2.5%, 5%, or 10%).
Salicylic Acid: This is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. It's often found in cleansers, toners, and spot treatments.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These include glycolic acid and lactic acid.They help exfoliate the skin and can be found in some cleansers and exfoliating products.
Sulfur: Sulfur is known for its mild anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It's often used in spot treatments.
Retinoids: Some OTC products contain retinoids like adapalene, which help unclog pores and promote cell turnover. They're available in lower strengths without a prescription.
Tea Tree Oil: This natural oil has antibacterial properties and can be found in some OTC acne treatments.
Clay Masks: These can help absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin, making them useful for acne-prone skin.
Soothing Ingredients: Many OTC acne products also include soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea extract to help calm irritated skin.
Non-Comedogenic Formulas: Look for products labeled as "non-comedogenic," meaning they're less likely to clog pores.
Oil-Free Moisturizers: Even if you have acne-prone skin, it's important to moisturize. Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizers.
It's important to note that while OTC treatments can be effective for many people, they may not work for everyone or for all types of acne. If your acne is severe, persists, or is causing emotional distress, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations and potentially prescription-strength treatments.
Remember to follow the instructions provided on the product packaging, and if you experience any irritation or adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best otc acne treatments on the marketProduct description
Differin Gel contains an Rx-strength acne-fighting retinoid. It clears breakouts where they start (deep in the pores), prevents acne before it begins, and as a result, restores skin's texture and tone.
- Clears breakouts where they start (Deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming, which ultimately restores skin's texture and tone
- Differin works differently than other Acne treatments by normalizing skin cell turnover and effectively targets two primary causes of Acne, clogged pores and inflammation
- Adapalene was created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products not containing Adapalene; It is suitable for use as part of your morning or evening regimen
- Water based formula, oil free, alcohol free, fragrance free, non comedogenic; Helps reduce the risk of scarring and Hyperpigmentation by treating Acne
- In a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to 87 percent reduction in acne lesions after 12 weeks, which will continue to improve with further use
User questions & answers
Question: | is there a guarentee |
Answer: | Hi Maxx! While we do not offer a guarantee on this product as results may vary, we can say that in clinical studies, Differin Gel provided nearly a 60% average reduction in acne lesions after 12 weeks which continues to improve with further use. It is also the first multi‐benefit dermatologist recommended retinoid available without a prescription and the newest advancement and ingredient in the OTC acne category in over 30 years! Let us know what you experience with the product as we would love to hear your results! |
Question: | While using this product is it okay to use face masks as well? such as aztec secret indian healing clay |
Answer: | Normally I love the Aztec clay (I like to mix it with honey) but it dried out my skin while using the differin. My skin is always on the dry side though, so if your skin is oily it may not bother you. You could even skip the differin for the day just in case. |
Question: | Can this be used for aging skin |
Answer: | According to a dermatologist-Differin is a fantastic anti-aging product as it stimulates collagen production by cells in our dermis (the deeper layer of the skin),” "This is what helps with fine lines and overall skin thickness." ... It's also the same ingredient that helps improve skin discoloration, texture and tone. It can take anywhere from 3-12 months to see improvement, but I can tell you it helped me immensely. Lightened my dark brown spots and smoothed my fine lines. It took about 3 months of every day usage to see results |
Question: | Should the package be saftey sealed |
Answer: | Hi Kysha! Your product’s tube should definitely be sealed upon purchase. If it’s not, please reach out to [email protected] with the lot number (found on the bottom of the package), as well as the purchase location. |
Product features
Differin Gel
Differin contains the first OTC Rx-strength acne-fighting retinoid. Retinoids play a crucial role in the treatment of acne by regulating skin cell turnover & reducing inflammation deep in the skin to clear & prevent pimples. What makes the retinoid in Differin (Adapalene) so cool is that it’s gentler on your skin, while still effective — that means you get the clearer skin you want without having to do things like completely avoid sunlight forever!
Beauty Favorite
In 2020 we won an Allure Best Of Beauty award, and in 2018 we won a Glamour Beauty Award. So we’re kind of a big deal.
Trust the process
This stuff isn’t like the other OTC products you’ve tried. There’s no true magic wand to get rid of a bad breakout, but Differin Gel renews skin from the inside out, resulting in clearer, smoother skin over time.
Before & after
When used every single day, Differin Gel can reduce up to 87% of acne in just 12 weeks (Cunliffe et al 1998, Galderma Laboratories). That’s about the time it would take to leisurely binge-watch your favorite old TV series.
- ✅BEST ACNE PILLS FOR WOMEN, MEN, TEENS, AND ADULTS WITH OILY SKIN as it has the Most Mg's Per Pill/Bottle. Clears Your Skin by Decreasing Oil Production, Improving Skin Healing Time, and it's Ability to Regulate your Hormonal Breakouts. These are the #1 selling supplements for acne on Amazon for the last 5 years in a row and the most video reviews you can find.
- ✅WE HAVE AN 80% SUCCESS RATE FOR CUSTOMERS USING THIS ACNE SUPPLEMENT FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. If you have used an entire bottle without results we please ask that you email the address on the top of bottle so that we can fix this issue. SOME CUSTOMERS SAY THEY NEED 2 OR MORE PILLS PER DAY TO SEE RESULTS. PLEASE CONSULT A DOCTOR IF YOU WANT TO EXCEED 1 PILL PER DAY. DO NOT TAKE THESE ACNE VITAMINS IF YOU HAVE DRY SKIN.
- ✅EFFECTIVE ACNE PILLS INGREDIENTS such as NAC (Sulfur), B5, and Vitamin A from a GMP certified manufacturer to give you the clear skin you deserve from the top ingredients on the market to fight cystic acne. These pills for acne and pimples clear your skin; if you’re not happy for any reason feel free to contact us and we’ll make sure you have a great experience. (MESSAGE US THROUGH AMAZON OR EMAIL FOR ANY ISSUES WITH YOUR ORDER)
- ✅BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE NATURALLY LIKE REALITY STAR RACHEL WALTERS so you can approach the world with a smile by taking the best acne supplements in Acnetame. Be sure to read our Acnetame FAQ to answer all your questions about these vitamins for acne. This acne vitamin supplement can also being taken along with Estrohalt. (TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR TEMPORARY PRICE REDUCTION FOR THESE ACNE PILLS NOW)
- ✅WE ARE OVERJOYED TO HEAR THE THOUSANDS OF SUCCESS STORIES FOR THESE OTC ACNE TREATMENT PILLS; SHOW US YOUR BEFORE AND AFTER! Clears skin from the inside out with effective ingredients such as Vitamins A, Pantothenic Acid (B5), NAC, Selenium, and other vitamins for skin that help control your excessive sebum levels.
User questions & answers
Question: | How big are the pills and are they coated |
Answer: | 4.0-4.3 I believe |
Question: | just started using the product. how long till you see results |
Answer: | Yes it’s very good to use |
Question: | Will this product help with oily skin, I've tried different washes and nothing works |
Answer: | Use with 6-9 months |
Question: | Hello, I want to reduce the oil in my skin and scalp , I don't have acne but I do have pores and super oily skin , will this product help |
Answer: | Yes. Its excellent |
Product features
Designed for Hormonal Acne with Powerful Ingredients that Actually Work
- Acnetame has supplements that work by treating hormonal acne from the inside out with natural ingredients giving you less breakouts. It is not meant for people with dry skin as it works better on those with oily and greasy skin types.
- Each ingredient in this acne supplement is backed by scientific research showing it is effective for improving skin health. Although many customers need one or more additional pills to get results we suggest you ask your doctor as this is a truly potent natural supplement.
- These OTC acne vitamins, minerals, and amino acid in Acnetame are added in at a safe dose to work synergistically and effectively help hormonal acne. It is the best pimple treatment OTC as it has helped thousands of people control their breakouts and reduce the amount of existing blemishes.
Clear Skin!
"I have tried Acne Products like Proactive and Clean & Clear in the past with no luck. I am a male in my 20s and suffer from mild acne. These acne pills have works tremendously! During the first week of using this product I noticed that my pimples started disappearing. A month in my acne is completely gone! Highly recommend this product!"
Good stuff!
"I decided to buy Acnetame after searching for a supplement to help my acne, I bought this because of the great reviews and I’m glad I did! My skin definitely has some work to do still but Acnetame helps me manage my acne. Definitely speeds up the life of pimples and reduces oil production. These pictures are me 3 months apart on Acnetame."
Buy It!
"I have been struggling with adult acne for a few years now and this is the only thing that has cleared it up, my skin is acne free, feels softer and is less oily."
Product is Amazing!
"I already seeing a great result, after 21 days taking the pills my skin is so much better, my skin is not oily anymore."
- Visibly reduces redness and pimple size in as few as 1 hour!
- 4x STRONGER than the regular acne treatments, free of Benzoyl Peroxide
- Amazing value and strength - compare to any other acne treatment, nothing is as strong. Supplied in a 60ml tube!
- Fast-acting gel clears up acne, treats oily skin and encouraging the skin to heal without scarring
- Highest concentration of Salicylic acid and sulfur - Acne doesn't stand a chance
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the percentage of salicylic acid in this product? I didn't see any list of the concentrations for the active ingredients |
Answer: | 100% leather is real leather. Bonded leather is thin bits of leather bonded to material which will peel and separat, NOT real leather. |
Question: | Does this product stain or bleach clothing/fabric |
Answer: | I'm sure there is a weight limit but I weigh about 280 and my wife weighs about 160 and we are able to use the couch with no issues. |
Question: | Can i sleep with this on |
Answer: | It is made in China according to the tags. But the quality seems to be very good. We're very happy with it. |
Question: | How can a product with sulfur and salicylic acid be *clear* and *odor free*? it's done nothing for me; it's like the emperor's new acne gel |
Answer: | The seat cushions for both sofa and chair are interchangeable and are 25" x 25" squares. We purchased two sofas and 1 chair for a sitting room, and are very pleased with our purchase. |
Product features
Before and after photo - 12 hour difference
WHAT IS THIS?
A powerful solution containing White Willow Bark and Zinc Oxide that "zaps" zits directly at the source-helping to clear up blemishes and prevent new ones from forming.This powerful gel also oxygenates and exfoliates your skin, helping it stay acne-free by sloughing away dead skin cells before they can clog your pores.
Over Night Magic is the strongest (yet most gentle) solution for fast-acting acne relief that you can buy that doesn't contain Benzoyl peroxide. This spot treatment is also formulated without artificial fragrances and colors. When you want to get control over your breakouts quickly, this is the formula you need.
Product description
If you experience hormonal acne, blackheads, scars, oily skin or that annoying whitehead - AcneFree is for you! AcneFree combats facial and body acne for men and women prone to acne, breakouts, and oily skin. It combines acne-fighting actives with caring ingredients to rapidly treat breakouts while balancing your skin for a clean, fresh-faced look. Our best-selling acne kit is the 3-Step 24H Acne Clearing System. Cleanse your face with our Oil-Free Acne Cleanser, balance skin’s pH with our Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner, and treat skin with our Oil Free Acne Lotion. Using dermatologist recommended Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide with natural ingredients, like witch hazel and aloe vera, gives results that can be seen as rapidly as 3 days! AcneFree is the only brand offering three different acne clearing systems for moderate acne, severe acne, and acne-prone sensitive skin. It's as easy to use as any other acne mask or serum, face wipes or soaps. It’s simpler to use than many popular Korean and Japanese acne therapies, which often suggest a 10 step ritual. How To Use AcneFree: Step 1: Oil-Free Acne Cleanser Apply a dime-size amount to damp skin and gently massage, avoiding the eye area. The cleanser can also be used on your chest or back. Rinse well. If peeling occurs, reduce usage. Step 2: Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner After cleansing, apply to entire face (or chest, or back) with a cotton pad, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse. Step 3: Oil Free Acne Lotion Apply to entire face (or chest, or back) with or without a cotton pad, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse. AcneFree Product Details: Dimensions: 6.6 x 1.8 x 7.3 inches Weight: 1 pound Supply: 60 Days Acne Treatment Type: Original For: Mild to Moderate Acne
- Formulated for mild to severe acne, blackheads and whiteheads; It eliminates breakouts with dermatologist endorsed 2.5 percent micronized benzoyl peroxide for visibly clearer skin
- #1 acne kit in the retail stores across the us
- Starts clearing breakouts in 1 to 3 days; This fast clearing system is the dermatologist approach to clear acne, clinically proven as effective as proactive
- Treat + care with benzoyl peroxide, witch hazel, and aloe vera to elimiate acne and maintain healthy skin; Use all three products twice daily
- 60 day supply of acnefree the #1 acne kit sold in stores; Each acnefree kit provides you with products that will help treat your acne while taking care of your skin for 2 months; Compare and save money as opposed to competing brands
User questions & answers
Question: | What are the active ingredients in the toner |
Answer: | The email address that you provided is not accurate. Please provide another address as my pump came broken as well. This is extremely frustrating |
Question: | Ive been using this for almost a week and have seen little results. How long does it take |
Answer: | All over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are required by law to have a National Drug Code (NDC) registration number. You can search the FDA database (by brand name) here:https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ndc/If you do not see the brand registered in the FDA database, we strongly encourage you not to use and discard that product. Most likely, it was not produced in a FDA/cGMP facility, and may be unsafe for you.The humane benzoyl peroxide acne wash NDC number is 69919-021-01. Thanks for your question, Terence. |
Question: | How many ounces in each bottle |
Answer: | Any product with benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics if you're not careful; make sure to rinse very thoroughly. We strongly recommend using old washcloths, towels and sheets for the duration of your treatment. You can also purchase benzoyl peroxide-resistant sheets and towels.Thanks for your question, Jeremy. |
Question: | Expiration Date |
Answer: | YES to vegan and NO to animal testing!! I did some sleuthing to confirm, and The Humane Company is listed on PETA's "Bunny Free" app as: Cruelty Free, Vegan Company, Using PETA Logo. Also, this is confirmed on The Humane Company's website: "None of our furry friends were harmed in the making of our skincare products. We’re proud to be a member of PETA’s “Beauty Without Bunnies” program, which is committed to eradicating animal testing for good. Humane is certified vegan as well, which means we'll never use animal byproducts or animal-derived ingredients, such as beeswax, keratin, lanolin, collagen, carmine or casein." I have been searching for a reasonably priced cruelty free Benzoyl Peroxide face wash and am so happy I found this. Can't wait to try it! |
Product features
Recommendations from YourAcneDoctor
Acne Free uses only the most effective ingredients recommended by dermatologists* to treat acne and care for your skin. Dr. Hadley King, a Board Certified Dermatologist explains, "Consistency is key for clear skin, and an easy-to-follow acne-fighting regimen helps target all the main factors that contribute to acne."
*Confirmed by Acne Free 2019
Natural Skin-Caring Ingredients
The Cleanser and Moisturizer both have acne fighting micronized Benzoyl Peroxide, while the Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner is formulated with the strongest skin-caring ingredients. Infused with high concentrations of Glycolic Acid and Aloe Vera, this toner removes excess oil, shine, and debris as well as naturally soothing, hydrating, and calming the skin.
Be Acne Free in 3 Steps
Step 1: Cleanse
Dampen skin and apply a dime-size by gently massaging onto face. Leave on for a few minutes to allow the benzoyl peroxide to deeply penetrate and cleanse pores. Avoid eye area. Rinse thoroughly. Use am and pm.
Step 2: Tone
Maximize the absorption of acne fighting ingredients by removing excess oil and dirt. Pour toner onto a cotton pad and apply to the entire face, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse.
Step 3: Treat
3.7% benzoyl peroxide with continuous release allows for acne to be treated continuously throughout the day. Apply a dime sized amount of lotion onto face and leave on.
1 Acne Kit in the United States!*
Acne Free's 24 Hour Acne Clearing System is the #1 Acne Kit in the US!*
*Source: Nielsen xAOC, YTD week ending 09.30.2017
Start to See Visible Results in 3 Days!
More radiant skin with less appearance of post-acne marks are demonstrated in two weeks and best results are proven after 8 weeks. The secret for good results is to stick with a routine that works for you.
*Confirmed by Acne Free 2019
Product description
Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser is a multipurpose acne facial cleanser that helps remove dirt and oil while treating and preventing breakouts. This daily face wash is ideal for normal, oily, and combination skin and helps provide clearer looking skin. Specially formulated for acne prone skin, it contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, the number-one pharmacist-recommended acne treatment, as well as mineral oil and menthol to help hydrate and calm skin. The unique pore-penetrating technology of our acne face wash deposits the acne medication at the source of blemishes to help fight and prevent breakouts long after you wash. This facial cleanser provides continuous acne control and is intended for daily use.
- 5-ounces of Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser with benzoyl peroxide acne medication helps remove dirt and oil while also treating and preventing breakouts
- Contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, the number-one pharmacist-recommended acne medication, with unique pore-penetrating technology that targets the source of blemishes
- Specially formulated for acne prone skin, its ideal for normal, oily and combination skin and provides continuous acne control for clearer looking skin
- Intended for daily use, the unique acne medication formula of this daily face wash keeps fighting breakouts long after you wash and works to prevent breakouts, and contains both mineral oil and menthol to help hydrate and calm skin
- To cleanse skin, wet face and massage acne face wash for 20-30 seconds while avoiding eye area, and then rinse thoroughly and gently pat dry
User questions & answers
Question: | can i use a toner followed by a moisturizer after using this |
Answer: | Basically yes- you just attach the legs. It is really nice- soft fabric and firm but not uncomfortable. It is a beautiful in the green. |
Question: | Does this take the color out of fabrics after you rinse it off |
Answer: | The holes are pre-drilled but I still had to use my power drill to screw them in securely. I assume if you put a lot of effort behind it you would be able to do it with a screwdriver, but I opted to use my drill instead |
Question: | Does anyone know the ph level of this cleanser |
Answer: | Yes |
Question: | Can it use with boys |
Answer: | Yes |
Latest Reviews
View all
3M Keyboard Stands
- Updated: 20.06.2023
- Read reviews

Babyganics Organic Formulas
- Updated: 17.05.2023
- Read reviews

Viva Media Chess Openings
- Updated: 12.02.2023
- Read reviews

Gps On Markets
- Updated: 22.06.2023
- Read reviews

Watch For Ios
- Updated: 26.06.2023
- Read reviews