Acne not just affects your skin but also your self esteem and confidence. In the present scenario, a variety of products are available in the market to treat this skin condition. But before you purchase any, it’s important to know what ingredients to look for in an acne cream.

A Delhi-based dermatologist, Dr Nirupama Parwanda says the creams which are effective in treating acne contain ingredients that are of medical grade and thus they must be taken only after doctor’s prescription. 

Before learning about the best ingredients for acne-prone skin, let’s first understand how acne occurs. Acne is a common skin condition that happens when the opening of an oil gland gets clogged, inflamed, and infected with bacteria. When the bacteria increase in number, the condition starts worsening. If you have mild acne, you can get rid of it just by using creams and gels but if it becomes severe, then the doctor may also prescribe antibiotics, hormonal treatment, or other oral anti acne medicines.

Best ingredients for acne-prone skin

1. Benzoyl peroxide: It is a very important ingredient present in anti-acne creams. It works by killing the bacteria on your skin and helps to unclog pores by removing dead skin cells. It also reduces inflammation and decreases comedones. It should be used after consulting a dermatologist and must be applied properly and in the right amount. Otherwise, it may lead to side effects like inflammation, redness and dryness. Also, it can lead to bleaching of hair and discoloration of fabrics like bed linens and clothes.

2. Retinoids: It is the most common ingredient found in anti-acne creams. It not just reduces old pimples but also prevents new pimples from growing. Retinoid-based creams are to be applied at night. When pimples are few, you must apply it on the pimple area only but if there are many pimples, then a doctor may recommend applying it on the entire face. Retinoid-based creams must be used only after doctor’s prescription as their wrong usage may lead to dryness and redness.

3. Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid, which is an exfoliant and removes dead skin. This ingredient helps prevent pores from becoming clogged.

4. Azelaic acid: This ingredient has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in the buildup of keratin, a protein that can clog pores.

Other ingredients that are commonly used in anti-acne creams include Tea tree oil, Vitamin C and Alpha hydroxy acids. Dermatologists may also suggest antibiotic creams to treat acne. These creams contain ingredients like clindamycin, nadifloxacin, clarithromycin and azithromycin which when applied on acne help reduce bacteria and improve the skin condition.

Which is the best acne cream?

Which cream is best to treat your acne depends upon the grade of acne you have. It can be mild, moderate or severe. Many times, doctors prescribe a combination which clubs two acne fighting ingredients. This combination can either be of benzoyl peroxide and antibiotic cream or that of tretinoin and antibiotic cream. The combination helps to improve the condition of your skin by attacking the acne from all sides.

Moisturiser for acne prone skin

Dr Parwanda suggests that if you have acne, you must use oil-free non-comedogenic moisturiser to prevent clogging of pores and aggravation of acne. Episoft AC Acnemoist moisturiser is something you can go for.

Sunscreen for acne prone skin

If your skin is acne prone, then you must use broad spectrum sunscreen or gel-based sunscreen. Dr Parwanda says that sunscreens not only save you from UV rays but also prevent excess pigmentation, uneven skin tone and spots on skin.

Getting rid of acne can be a little tricky. However, diligently following a skincare routine that is packed with goodness of acne treating ingredients can go a long way.