Treatments for acne tend to be divided into topical products that are applied directly to the skin – many of which can be sold over the counter (OTC) – and oral treatments such as antibiotics, which are only available on prescription.
As there is no cure for acne, treatments target some of the main causes of the condition. They may work to reduce the production of sebum in the skin’s glands, or they may speed up skin turnover so that pores are less likely to become blocked. Some treatments fight bacterial infection or minimise inflammation. All products take time to have an effect, so advise customers that it may take several months for their skin to noticeably improve.