11 best acne treatment products
Acne or acne is a long-known inflammatory disease of the skin appendages. Probably for the first time it was described by the Byzantine court doctors in the middle of the first millennium of our era. Running cases lead to the formation of a cosmetic defect, serve as a source of chronic inflammation of the skin and the formation of scars. Acne severe is a constant source of stress, the development of dysmorphophobia, feelings of inferiority and significantly worsens the quality of life, in extreme cases leading to suicide.
The essence of acne is in inflammation of the glands that produce sebum and bring it out, in the blockage of the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland and the accompanying inflammation of the hair follicle. Acne rash almost never occurs as a single entity. In the event that no more than 10 acne is on the face, shoulders, neck or chest (no signs of inflammation), then such a rash is considered mild. And if there are more than 40 eels, and almost all of them are surrounded by a halo of inflammation with the phenomenon of pain and swelling, they merge (conglobates) and occur with symptoms of general intoxication, then this is a serious condition that requires serious and prolonged treatment.
Dermatologists have many reasons for the appearance of acne, among which the most frequent is the hormonal alteration of the body during puberty. The appearance of inflammatory changes in the sebaceous glands often leads to low immunity, pregnancy, improper diet and constipation, the use of low-quality cosmetic preparations.
This review includes drugs that are intended for topical use by applying to the skin, and systemic drugs in the form of tablets. The second group of drugs can be administered only by a doctor, if indicated, and in the absence of contraindications. Any self-treatment is dangerous and absolutely contraindicated. The rating will not list traditional medicine, as well as numerous physiotherapeutic procedures that are widely used in beauty salons in order to eliminate the effects of long-term current, chronic acne during the formation of scar tissue. These include a variety of masks, peels, cryotherapy and ozone treatment, darsonvalization, various types of cleansing, phototherapy, dermabrasion and many other means. Their consideration is not the purpose of this rating.
Initially, those local medicines that are well suited for the treatment of mild acne will be considered, and for this purpose creams, gels and ointments are used. But the composition of local remedies for the treatment of acne includes antibacterial agents and antibiotics, therefore, even in this case, it is necessary to consult a specialist before use. All prices listed in the rating are relevant for large cities of the Russian Federation for the beginning of 2019, and for pharmacies of all forms of ownership.
Rating of the best drugs for the treatment of acne
| Nomination | a place | Name of product | price |
| The best antibiotics and antiseptics | 1 | Zenerite (erythromycin + zinc acetate) | 628 ₽ |
| 2 | Dalatsin-gel (clindamycin) | 767 ₽ | |
| 3 | Klenzit C (clindamycin + adapalene). | 562 ₽ | |
| 4 | Baziron AS (benzoyl peroxide) | 583 ₽ | |
| 5 | Skinoren (azelaic acid) | 1 100 ₽ | |
| The best means to reduce inflammation and reparants | 1 | Kuriozin - gel | 600 ₽ |
| 2 | Delex - acne, acne gel | 231 ₽ | |
| 3 | Bioderma sebium AKC | 882 ₽ | |
| The best drugs of systemic effect: contraceptives, retinoids, antiandrogens. | 1 | Jess (Yarin, Janine) | 995 ₽ |
| 2 | Systemic retinoids (Roaccutane, Aknekutan, Erase) | 1 660 ₽ | |
| 3 | Tsiproteron (Androkur) | 1 395 ₽ |
The best means of local action
The purpose of using local remedies is to reduce the secretion of sebum, reduce the number of bacterial populations on the skin surface and take part in the formation of secondary inflammation, and fight follicular hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis leads to slow removal of dead epidermis flakes from the skin surface. Hyperkeratosis gives food to bacteria and pathogenic fungi, the epidermis clogs the ducts of the sebaceous glands, creating traffic jams. All topical drugs are used in the treatment of acne for a long time, they are applied to the affected skin, with the exception of the eyelids and the area around the eyes.
The best antibiotics and antiseptics
First, antibacterial drugs and antibiotics will be considered. They greatly inhibit the growth of bacteria and suppress the very cause of inflammation. However, antibiotics should not be abused, since if they are applied to large areas, resorption and systemic action is possible. It is also recommended to regularly change the pattern of use of antibacterial drugs, in order to avoid the development of microflora resistance to the drugs used. To do this, it is recommended to periodically take the discharge from the surface of the foci and conduct bacteriological research with the release of a pure culture and the determination of the sensitivity of microbes to antibiotics.
Zenerite (erythromycin + zinc acetate)
Rating: 4.9
Erythromycin, which is part of Zinerit, is a dermatotropic antibiotic. It does not kill microorganisms, but it suppresses their reproduction. Zinc Acetic Acid has an astringent and drying effect, reduces sebum secretion and is suitable mainly for oily skin. Especially good erythromycin inhibits the proliferation of epidermal streptococci and propionic bacteria, which are most often the main consumers of sebum, guilty of acne.
Zener is produced in the form of a liquid, in a bottle with an applicator. Apply Zener on acne twice a day, morning and evening. By clicking on the applicator, you can dispense the amount of fluid. The average daily dose is 1 ml of solution. The average course duration is 3 months. As a rule, a visible improvement in acne of mild and moderate severity may be noticed after 2 weeks. The pharmaceutical company Astellas, the Netherlands, produces Zenerit, and the average cost of one bottle, which is enough for a monthly use, is 735 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantage of Zinerit can be considered its high security. Erythromycin can be used even in pregnant women and during breastfeeding, and from local side effects there may occasionally be a burning sensation and dryness. These symptoms are mild and soon pass, without demanding discontinuation of the medication. A big plus is the fact that after drying on the skin, the solution becomes invisible, and the patient can safely apply Zener on the face, it will not be covered with any white spots of zinc ointment, as many people think. The relative disadvantage of the product is the high price and the small volume of the bottle, but the effectiveness eliminates this small drawback.
Dalatsin-gel (clindamycin)
Rating: 4.8
This local remedy in the form refers to the antibiotics from the group of lincosamides, and is a monocomponent drug. It is this antibiotic that quickly acts in the ducts of the sebaceous glands, because it is activated by skin enzymes. Practically all known strains of propionic bacteria are sensitive to its action. The second positive effect of clindamycin will be a reduction in the oily skin by reducing the amount of fatty acids. It is necessary to apply the gel in the same way as Zenerit, 2 times a day, applying it with a thin layer on the surface of acne rash. The course of treatment is long. The first results will be noticeable at least in a month and a half, and the duration of the course of treatment can be up to 6 months. The American company Upjon produces this highly effective gel, and a tube weighing 30 grams costs 925 rubles.
Attention! When buying Dalacin do not confuse, because it is available in the form of a cream, but the cream is intended only for intravaginal use. This is all the more important because the cost of the gel and the cream is almost the same, and it is very easy to get confused.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantage of Dalatsin can be considered its high activity and the ability to dry the skin without clogging the pores, simply by reducing the secretion of fatty acids. During treatment, it is necessary to take into account the fact that Clindamycin and Erythromycin should not be used together, since antagonism is observed between them. Clindamycin often can cause the development of dryness and irritation when applied to the skin. During treatment it is necessary to carefully avoid applying the drug to the conjunctiva of the eyes and oral mucosa. If this happens often enough, and Clindamycin will systematically fall into the mouth, then the development of severe and prolonged diarrhea is possible.
Klenzit C (clindamycin + adapalene).
Rating: 4.8
This is a combined drug, which in addition to the already mentioned clindamycin contains adapalen. This substance belongs to the retinoids, relatives of vitamin A. It is known that they are highly effective in treating acne, and have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, eliminate the so-called comedones. Comedones are cystic dilatation of the orifices of the sebaceous glands, which are thus blocked by poorly detached superficial epidermis, and hyperkeratosis is to blame for their formation.
Comedones for acne are a risk factor that leads to a chronic process and the retention of inflammation deep in the skin. It is adapalen that improves the cellular composition of the hair follicles, which reduces the likelihood of their blockage. In addition, adapalen reduces the severity of cellular inflammatory reactions. The second component is clindamycin, mentioned above. Together, these two components produce a more pronounced effect than they do alone.
Apply the drug to dry and clean acne once a night. To notice the effect of the application on average, you can in two weeks, the course usually lasts no longer than a month under the supervision of a dermatologist. Sustained improvement develops after several courses, with a total duration of about 3 months.
Klenzit C is produced by Glenmark pharmaceutical company from India, and the average cost of a 30 g tube is 830 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of Klenzit C are the combination of two highly active components in one relatively inexpensive means. The drug is highly effective because it should be applied only once a day, which leads to significant savings. However, the agent can cause side effects mainly due to clindamycin. Klenzit C is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, and is forbidden for use in patients with Crohn's disease who have not reached the age of 12 years, due to the lack of necessary research.
Baziron AS (benzoyl peroxide)
Rating: 4.7
This drug with a pronounced antimicrobial action is a gel, but not colorless, but white. It is produced in a tube weighing 40 g, both in a concentration of 2.5% and 5%. The cost of these two varieties is about the same: 900 rubles per pack. The well-known French company Galderma produces the acne drug. Baziron has not only antimicrobial, but also keratolytic effect, removing excess keratinized skin. This allows you to eliminate the formation of cysts, or comedones, improve blood supply to the tissues and reduce the synthesis of sebum. Apply Baziron AU should be from one to 2 times a day on dry and clean skin, the effect will be visible in a month. Persistent clinical remission usually occurs three months after treatment.
Advantages and disadvantages
Plus Bazirona AC is a double action: keratolytic and antiseptic in one. Benzoyl peroxide has a very low resorption rate, and even if it gets through the skin, it is rapidly excreted by the kidneys and does not accumulate in the tissues. The drug has no harmful effect on the fetus, and can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Adverse reactions include slight redness, dryness or burning of the skin, which usually do not require withdrawal. As in other cases, Baziron should not be applied to the conjunctiva of the eyes, the mucous membrane of the mouth and nose, and as a result of accidental contact, they should be washed with plenty of water. The price range of this medicine is medium (among acne treatment products), the quality is European. Baziron can be combined with other local drugs, because it does not contain antibiotics.
Skinoren (azelaic acid)
Rating: 4.6
Skinoren is a highly effective dermatoprotective agent that protects the skin from microbial aggression and is used as a gel and cream. The cost of the cream and gel (30 g) is about the same: about 1,400 rubles. The actions of azelaic acid - improving the function of keratinization in the sebaceous glands, reducing the fat content of the skin and antimicrobial activity. At the same time Skinoren is not considered an antibiotic. Also, the tool has anti-inflammatory effect, regulates cellular immunity.
Apply the cream should be on pre-cleansed and dried skin, gently rubbing, 2 times a day, preferably in the morning and evening. Means economical: for applying to the entire area of the face is enough strips about 2 cm long. With acne vulgaris, clinical improvement is usually noticeable after a month, but the course should be longer, usually two or three months. Skinoren is known for Bayer pharmaceutical company.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantage of Skinoren is the possibility of its wide use in cosmetology, it is not only an anti-acne agent. It is successfully used for rosacea. Skinoren has an antimicrobial effect and does not have side effects of antibiotics. Skinoren does not require protection of the skin against ultraviolet radiation during treatment, and is successfully used in the treatment of various types of acne, ranging from vulgar to severe.
The best means to reduce inflammation and reparants
Some of the tools discussed in the previous section of the rating already have anti-inflammatory components in their composition. But there are special prescriptions that have an anti-inflammatory effect, and at the same time do not contain antibacterial components and antibiotics. However, in this case there will be an antiseptic effect, but at the expense of other ingredients. They can be preparations of sulfur, boric acid. Antifungal drugs that are used for prophylactic purposes are also widely used.
Kuriozin - gel
Rating: 4.9
This gel, produced by the famous Hungarian company Gedeon Richter, belongs to reparants, that is, it restores tissue and stimulates its healing.Curiosin contains hyaluronic acid in combination with zinc. The use of Curiosin contributes, in addition to improving tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and has an antiseptic and bacteriostatic effect.
The use of Curiosin improves local cellular immunity, promotes proper differentiation of fibroblasts in the inflammatory focus. The introduction of zinc in combination with hyaluronic acid made it possible to obtain activity against pathogenic microorganisms, which is not observed when using other compounds of hyaluronic acid (for example, sodium hyaluronate). It is shown, first of all, Kuriozin in the event that the patient has a large number of comedones, pustular acne, that is, in the presence of a bubble rash containing pustules, or pustules.
It is recommended to prescribe this remedy for uncomplicated acne immediately after reducing inflammation, and after the manifestation of the action of antibacterial drugs. The presence of hyaluronic acid allows the formation of minimal, cosmetic and inconspicuous scars, since the connective tissue with regular use of Curiosin fills the entire skin defect. Apply Curiosin in the morning and evening, 2 times a day on clean, affected skin. It dries out quickly enough, and the duration of the course of treatment is determined by the form and severity of acne. The cost of one pack of gel weighing 15 g is, on average, 570 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
Plus Kuriozina is the ability to ennoble young scars, but for this it is necessary to apply it after the first fight against inflammation. Kuriozin does not stain skin, does not leave prints on linen. The safety of Kuriozin is high, when applied topically it is practically not absorbed into the blood, and it is contraindicated only in the case of individual intolerance in pregnant and lactating, but due to lack of data.
Delex - acne, acne gel
Rating: 4.8
We represent in the ranking, finally, and the domestic drug. Manufacturer Helsey - gel produces a whole line of cosmetics. These are gels and lotions for acne, which include plant extracts, menthol, and sulfur. The manufacturer does not describe in detail what kind of herbal formula is contained, so this tool and the entire line can be considered not pharmaceutical, but parapharmaceutical. This gel and acne lotion is used not so much for treatment, but as a prophylactic measure, and especially in patients with oily skin. As a result of the treatment, the secretion of sebum is reduced, and in some cases Delex - acne gel is able to cope with acne, but only if it occurs in a mild form.
Apply to the skin of the face this gel should be from one to two times a day, usually in the morning and evening. Rub the gel should not, and you can only apply. In that case, if the gel is used for treatment, then it should be applied only to areas with acne, but not on healthy skin. The manufacturer does not limit the duration of the course of application: starting from a week and up to the complete disappearance of the symptoms of inflammation. There is one pack with a volume of 30 ml on average, about 210 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
The disadvantage of this drug is the fact that it is a cosmetic product, not a medicine, and according to strict rules for rating the best products, it should not be in it at all. But still, for him we will make an exception, since the acne rash has periods of not only exacerbation but also remission, it is at this time that skin care is required for prophylactic purposes. It is prevention that is considered the strength of all parapharmaceuticals, including this line of products. Independently cope with a fairly pronounced acne rash, this gel or lotion is not capable. The fact that the manufacturer did not limit the duration of the treatment course indicates that the remedy does not have a particularly strong effect.But on the other hand, it is available in pharmacies, is well tolerated, has no contraindications, except for individual intolerance, has a very low price.
Bioderma sebium AKC
Rating: 4.7
Another example of high-quality parapharmaceuticals used to treat and prevent acne. This tool is available in two forms: a cream and an emulsion for the face. This product contains alpha-hydroxy acid esters, which have the ability to dissolve comedones, and are used in cosmetics for the so-called acid or glycolic peeling. The source of alpha-hydroxy acids are considered to be natural weak organic acids. These include, for example, malic, citrus and lactic acid. Also in the composition of the emulsion is beta-hydroxy acid, namely salicylic. This tool has long been used in medicine as a keratolytic drug, it normalizes follicular keratinization, preventing hyperkeratosis, improves exfoliation of dead epidermal particles, and has anti-inflammatory effect.
It is necessary to apply this emulsion on previously cleansed skin once or twice a day, and should be prescribed to patients with acne within a few weeks after the relief of exacerbation. The treatment is preferably carried out under the guidance of an experienced dermatocosmetologist. The well-known French company Bioderma produces an emulsion, and a 30 ml tube is worth, on average, 1000 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
Bioderma is a very good parapharmaceutical, and it would ideally prevent the formation of new eels and comedones, but only if inflammation is first cured. Therefore, before you buy this tool, you should consult with a dermatologist or dermatologist, and find out if you need a comprehensive treatment first. You yourself can get confused, because there are tools that include different concentrations of hydroxy acids. For example, products with a high concentration are used for peeling, medium-concentrated ones are prescribed for a longer period, and preparations with a low concentration of acids are indicated in the interrecurrent period, as well as for the prevention of scarring. In the same case, if the so-called “problem” skin remains after curing acne, then this care product will be perfect.
The best drugs of systemic effect: contraceptives, retinoids, antiandrogens.
Finally, we proceed to the description of “heavy artillery,” or systemic drugs. They are used solely on doctor's prescription, and almost all are prescription. This is quite a serious means. Among them are contraceptive, or contraceptive, agents that affect male sex hormones and inhibit their activity (strict antiandrogens), as well as systemic retinoids, of which Roaccutane will be the most active one - the “gold standard of treatment” for severe acne. Consider these tools in more detail. In this section of the rating, we will not list in detail each of the many drugs within the groups, since only a doctor will select them. We give one characteristic and the most prominent representative.
Jess (Yarin, Janine)
Rating: 4.9
Needless to say, hormonal contraceptives are generally originally created for women, not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to normalize the cycle, and therefore these funds are used only for the treatment of female acne. It is known that the activity of the sebaceous glands, and the consequent subsequent blockage of the excretory ducts and inflammation is regulated by the activity of male sex hormones, testosterone.
Therefore, the use of certain drugs (Jess, Yarin) with blocking androgenic action from this group allows to reduce the severity of acne and the manifestation of secondary inflammation.These tools are quite effective, they are able to treat acne that has already arisen, as well as reduce the formation of new elements. Since all these drugs are initially considered contraceptive, their appointment should not be only by the dermatologist. Use of contraceptives Jess and his analogue Yarina should be monitored by a gynecologist.
The drug Jess, in addition to contraception and the treatment of severe forms of premenstrual syndrome, is officially indicated for the treatment of moderate acne. In this case, Jess is applied according to a rather complex scheme, which we will not describe here. For this there is a special rating of contraceptives, to which we refer the reader. This medicine costs from 1000 rubles per package, which is designed for a month of administration, and is produced by the German company Bayer.
Advantages and disadvantages
Of course, the main drawback of all hormonal drugs will be strict indications and the need for medical supervision. These drugs may also have serious side effects, such as those associated with the development of thrombosis and vascular complications. But if there is evidence, there is a choice. The drugs Jess and Yarin are identical in composition, but the concentration of hormones in the first of them is less than in the second, and the risk of side effects is reduced proportionally, and Jess acts more gently.
But the drug Yarin acts more strongly, quickly cleansing the skin from the elements of acne, but its use is associated with a higher risk. Of course, the ideal option for prescribing the drug is a combination of direct indication, that is, the need for hormonal contraception and the simultaneous presence of acne. Also, hormonal medications are perfect for all patients who have functional disorders of the menstrual cycle and the development of acne, in which case hormonal drugs will help establish a normal cycle and simultaneously relieve acne.
Systemic retinoids (Roaccutane, Aknekutan, Erase)
Rating: 4.8
Above we talked a little about retinoids in the description of means of local action. So, the drug Klenzit-s has adapalen in its composition, which is a mild retinoid. Roaakutan is much more powerful. It acts by suppressing the activity of sebum production, with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, effectively combating hyperkeratosis of epithelial cells. Roaccutane improves skin cell differentiation.
This remedy has been shown only for severe types of acne, which are absolutely not sensitive to other types of treatment. Roakkutan should be used during meals once or twice a day, in the process of treatment dose selection is made. Quite often it is possible to achieve very good results in continuous four or six months of treatment, during which an individual dose is gradually selected.
The standard dosage for most patients does not exceed 1 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. The average course dose is 135 mg per kilogram of the patient’s body weight throughout the course. One pack of 30 capsules, 100 mg each, on average, costs 1,800 rubles. Produces Roaccutane company Hoffmann la Rosh from Germany. According to calculations, for a patient with an average body weight of 70 kg during the course it is necessary to take 9450 mg of Roaccutane. Accordingly, these are 94 tablets, or 5640 rubles for the entire course of three months, about 1900 rubles a month, which is not very expensive for successful treatment of severe skin lesions.
Advantages and disadvantages
Perhaps the merit of Roaccutane is the fact that it is one of the last “magic wands” for severe forms of acne that disfigure the skin and are completely refractory to all other treatments. The high cost of the drug, divided into several months of admission, is not so great. Much more serious are the side effects that it can cause.Roaccutane in this sense is a very serious drug.
So serious that before starting treatment for a woman who lives sexually, she needs to submit a certificate from a gynecologist that she is not pregnant. Also, the patient must bring a written consent that she understands the danger of pregnancy, is fully informed about the possible consequences of pregnancy, and bring a certificate that already a month (!) Before Roakkutan's planned intake, she began to take contraceptives, and two different contraceptives are desirable. At least 11 days before the start of Roaccutane, the test should confirm the absence of pregnancy, and such testing in the case of sexual activity should be carried out monthly during treatment. Why do we need all these unusual conditions for any drug?
The fact is that isotretinoin is not only a highly effective drug for the treatment of severe acne, but also a remedy that can not only cause congenital deformities of the fetus, but almost guaranteed to cause them. In the event that Roaccutane or its analogs are prescribed to men, then the patient should completely exclude the possibility of taking at least one - the only pill for use by women. Therefore, with men it is much easier.
It should also be remembered that, against the background of acne treatment, usually after 10-15 days, an exacerbation of the disease occurs, and this is normal. But throughout the entire period of treatment, the entire skin becomes very sensitive, prone to wounds, abrasions, so it is impossible to carry out planned operations and you should try not to get injured. While the patient is taking Roaccutane, you can not sunbathe, take alcohol, and often suffer from such a side effect as dry lips and mucous membranes - this is a sign of vitamin A hypervitaminosis. helps to get rid of acne.
Tsiproteron (Androkur)
Rating: 4.7
Finally, in conclusion of the ranking of effective drugs for the treatment of acne or acne, it is necessary to allocate infrequently used individual anti-androgen drugs. Oral contraceptives have already been described above, with a certain blocking effect on androgenic activity. But antiandrogens are specifically designed to block testosterone action. Initially, drugs are used to treat malignant tumors of the prostate gland, since the prostate is an organ that responds extremely strongly to changes in the concentration of male sex hormones. The most famous of the group of these funds is Androkur.
Officially, the indication for the use of the drug Androkur or its analogues in women is hirsutism, androgenic alopecia, as well as severe forms of acne. It should be noted that the treatment of acne is possible only with the minimum dosage - this is 10 mg. The fact is that there are 50 and 100 mg pills on sale, they were created specifically for the treatment of prostate cancer, to reduce sexual desire for sexual dysfunction, as well as for other special purposes, not related to acne.
In women, the drug is used in conjunction with hormonal contraceptives, such as Diane-35. The purpose of this combination is to prevent bleeding in women to receive anti-androgens. It goes without saying that the gynecologist should monitor the treatment together with the dermatologist, since women take Androkur on certain days of the cycle, and according to special rules.
Androkur is produced by the well-known company Schering, and the cost of 15 tablets calculated for monthly intakes in the appropriate dosage of 10 mg is, on average, 1,500 rubles. They are applied daily for the first 15 days of the cycle, and then contraceptive Diana - 35 is connected.
Advantages and disadvantages
Perhaps Androkur is an alternative to Roaccutane for severe forms of acne, but only for women.If you take men, then almost all of them will prefer to use Roaccutane. It is better to take care of the skin, and to have the risk of developing any systemic effects than to lose the male sexual characteristics for the duration of the treatment, to acquire impotence and to suppress the sexual desire for a long time. After all, usually antiandrogenic drugs for men are shown only for a very serious reason, for example, the goal of prolonging life in severe, inoperable forms of prostate cancer.
In conclusion, it should be recalled that it is better from the very beginning to correctly deal with the first manifestations of acne in young age, and not to bring the matter to severe forms. To this end, recommended regular hygienic procedures, it is important to follow the principles of proper nutrition. It is very important to maintain healthy skin is a complete rejection of bad habits.
Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.
