A quick note about acne care. Please consult your dermatologist about your skin care routine.
A typical routine when first starting with prescription acne products includes the following:
AM: 1) Gentle Cleanser 2) AM prescription or AM Acne product with active ingredients 3) Sunscreen/Moisturizer
PM: 1) Gentle Cleanser 2) PM prescription or Acne Product with active ingredients 3) Moisturizer
This may vary based on your skin and acne type. More than anything, below are products that I often recommend in an acne routine.
CLEANSER
I recommend this cleanser when starting new prescription topicals
Cetaphil Gentle Clear BPO Cleanser
Benzoyl Peroxide
This is an excellent benzoyl peroxide cleanser that can be combined with prescription clindamycin in the morning
CeraVe - Acne Foaming Cleanser
Benoyl Peroxide
This is an another benzoyl peroxide cleanser that can be combined with prescription clindamycin in the morning
Salicylic Acid
Only use this cleanser if you are well established in your acne medication routine without irritation
AM SUNSCREEN
This lightweight sunscreen has a slight green tint which reduces visible redness/acne scars.
I love this sunscreen. It's a mineral sunscreen that feels good on the skin. Also has 5% niacinamide to help treat acne/scarring.
CeraVe Am is an excellent sunscreen for acne prone skin. Contains niacinamide (an acne-fighting ingredients)
ACTIVE TOPICALS
For milder acne, when first starting an acne routine or in individuals with sensitive skin, we often start with adapalene.
For milder acne, when first starting an acne routine or in individuals with sensitive skin, we often start with adapalene.
PM MOISTURIZER
After applying your retinoid (This may be Adapalene, Akleif, Altreno, Arazlo, Epiduo or Twyneo)
BODY ACNE AND FOLLICULITIS
Apply to body
Leave on for 3-5 minutes before washing off
Apply while the shower is warming up or listen to an entire song in the shower while it works.
Spray on skin immediately after showering
Great to keep in your sports/gym back to cleanse your skin if you don't have time after activity.
Solution for applying acne creams to difficult to apply locations
ACCUTANE TOOL KIT
While on Accutane, you don't want to use any potentially irritating products on your skin. You can stop all other acne treatments.
Instead, focus on moisturizing and sun protection.
Take a non-sedating antihistamine once daily for the first 12 weeks to reduce acne flare.
Options include:
Fexofenadine (Allegra) 180 mg or Levoceterizine (Zyzal) 5mg or Ceterizine (Zyrtec) 10 mg
You will be more sensitive to the sun while on Accutane. Use daily sunscreen. Elta MD Elements and CeraVe am are good options.
Nose bleeds are common. Xlear nasal spray is excellent. Also, put a humidifier in your bedroom.
DIET AND ACNE
(Avoid sugary drinks and foods that raise blood sugar)
Dairy- Specifically non-fat dairy has been show to worsen acne.
I’d never tell you to give up chocolate completely, but eating it every day can make acne worse