35 best remedies for acne on the face: effective ointments for teenagers and adults

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most popular pharmaceutical products. They are prescribed during the treatment of a number of diseases and conditions, often in entire courses. Even with clear instructions from the attending physician, many compatriots have doubts and look for information about drugs on the Internet. And then they come to the pharmacy and ask the pharmacist questions, hoping to justify their guesses or dispel doubts. In this situation, the head manager needs, on the one hand, to help the pharmacy visitor, and on the other hand, not to take on the role of a doctor. It is in this vein that we will cover the topic of topical NSAIDs today - in the form of competent answers to customer questions.

What does “when used correctly” mean? Anointed, and that’s it.

It is advisable to rub in topical forms of NSAIDs for a while rather than just apply them. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect of the ointment will be much higher if you do not just “anoint” it, but actively rub the product into the skin over the sore spot for some time. In the course of relevant studies, it was found that even 45 seconds of rubbing diclofenac diethylamine gel five times increased the transdermal delivery of the drug compared to simple application to the skin. And you need to remember that pain-relieving ointments based on NSAIDs act on areas of pain located immediately under the skin. If we talk about joints, then these are the knees, elbows and small joints of the hands. The local form most likely “will not reach the hip joint.” It should be rubbed “around the circumference” of the limb, for example, not only into the dorsum, but also into the palmar surface of the interphalangeal joint [6, 7].

How to choose the right ointment for acne

When purchasing an effective remedy for acne on the face, you need to pay attention to:

• Skin type – drying medications are used for oily skin types, and are completely unsuitable for dry skin types. Emollients are suitable for those who are sensitive.
• Expiration date - if there is a month left until the end of the date, it is better not to take such an anti-acne ointment, it is already less effective. Buy the product at a pharmacy that can withstand humidity and the required temperatures. Expired ointment will lead to skin pathologies.
• Certificate of quality - if you have doubts about the caring gel or cream you are purchasing, you can request a document.
• It is better not to buy ointment manufacturers – it is better not to buy little-known products, but to give preference to those brought from Italy, Switzerland, and France.

Gels and ointments must combat the acne factor, otherwise some acne will disappear and new ones will appear.

Which topical NSAID is best?

Everything is individual. If the analgesic effect of oral and injectable forms of NSAIDs can be more or less ranked, then an objective comparative assessment of topical drugs is very difficult. The reason for this is that, along with the actual active substance, the intensity of rubbing, excipients (for example, dimethyl sulfoxide) and the placebo effect play a significant role. Most studies on the effectiveness of topical NSAIDs have focused on diclofenac and ketoprofen. The increased attention to them is due to the fact that diclofenac is the only NSAID whose topical forms are approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and ketoprofen, accordingly, is approved in most other countries of the world. Reliable data comparing these two drugs with each other have not yet been published. No one questions the effectiveness of other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for external use (ibuprofen, phenylbutazone, piroxicam, nimesulide, etc.); each of them was the subject of several clinical trials at one time, but the geography of their use is much more modest and is often limited to a few developing countries [2, 8].

Diagnostics

The difficulties of differential diagnosis for local lymphadenopathy lie in identifying a local inflammatory process of an infectious (usually) or non-infectious nature. Lymphatic vessels supplying the upper extremities of the body, the chest wall and the mammary glands pass through the axillary lymph nodes, and as a result, the inflammatory process in this part of the body can provoke enlargement of the lymph nodes. Much less often, the pathogen enters the lymph node and directly through the skin of the axillary region when its integrity is violated. Possible causes of axillary lymphadenitis:

• panaritiums;
• erysipelas of the upper limb;
• phlegmon of soft tissues of the hand, forearm and shoulder;
• osteomyelitis of the bones of the upper limb;
• boils of the same localization;
• purulent mastitis;
• cat scratch disease;
• lymphoma;
• mammary cancer;
• melanoma.

Bacterial axillary lymphadenitis is caused by the following infectious agents:

• staphylococci and streptococci;
• Proteus wand;
• coli;
• enterobacteria

In order to establish the correct diagnosis, it is necessary to take into account the anamnesis and all clinical indications. Diagnosis is usually made using puncture biopsy of lymph nodes; if necessary, lymph node excision can be performed, followed by histological analysis. Before making a diagnosis, a number of examinations are carried out:

• lymphoscintigraphy;
• computed tomography;
• radiopaque lymphography.

Often a patient has to go through several specialists at once to verify the diagnosis, from a general practitioner to an infectious disease specialist, a venereologist, an oncologist and a therapist. The examination begins with palpation (palpation) of the areas where the nodes are located. If primary signs of lymphadenitis are detected, an ultrasound examination is first prescribed. Differential diagnosis should be carried out with systemic blood diseases (leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis), storage diseases (Gaucher, Niemann-Pick), immunopathological diseases (chronic granulomatous disease, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, etc.), tumor metastases. Sometimes it is necessary to carry out a differential diagnosis with other surgical diseases, for example, breast cancer can metastasize to nearby (axillary lymph nodes) and then treatment will be aimed at the underlying disease.

Do excipients in the local form of NSAIDs matter?

Yes, they improve skin permeability and perhaps enhance the therapeutic effect in a certain way. In separate studies, for example, topical formulations of diclofenac with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and diclofenac diethylamine 1.16% have been shown to penetrate the skin faster than “regular” diclofenac sodium gels. In addition, DMSO itself may have a slight anti-inflammatory effect. There is no solid evidence of an increase in the analgesic effect due to the listed supplements, but their use at least helps to overcome the individual characteristics of the skin [7, 9–11].

Can I take NSAID tablets and use the topical form at the same time?

This is not directly prohibited by the instructions for use, but it is not recommended, and, apparently, does not make sense. According to the only credible study on this topic, there was no significant increase in the analgesic effect when combining local and systemic forms of NSAIDs. At the same time, this use of drugs slightly increased the frequency of rectal bleeding. In clinical trials, oral administration of diclofenac and ibuprofen at doses 2 and 3 times higher than recommended also did not lead to increased pain relief. The effect of a combination of tablets and a topical form of NSAIDs will most likely not be pronounced. At the same time, the likelihood of unwanted reactions slightly increases. Therefore, this combination is not recommended. Usually, if a local remedy does not help, the doctor cancels it and transfers the patient to oral administration [12, 13].

List of effective acne remedies

Effective medications for rashes cope well with epidermal disorders, do not have negative effects when used correctly, have a small number of contraindications and are well accepted by the skin, without clogging pores or leading to allergies.

Below is a review of the best facial acne treatments for teenagers and adults .

Salicylic ointment

The composition of the medicine includes salicylic acid and petroleum jelly. The substances exhibit a pronounced anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect. Suitable for treating purulent rashes and lightening the skin after acne. Salicylic ointment is used for no more than 21 days.

Restrictions on use: kidney pathologies. The product has an exfoliating effect and is often used for acne scars. The ointment causes a burning sensation, increases local blood flow, thereby regenerating skin cells.

Heparin ointment

The product contains heparin, benzocaine, and benzyl nicotinate. Healing ointment is indicated for the treatment of comedones and acne. Helps relieve inflammation and has an analgesic effect.

The course of treatment is 2 weeks.

Cannot be used by pregnant or lactating women.

Zinc ointment

The main substance is zinc oxide. Disinfects and perfectly dries purulent rashes, removes acne. Under its influence, traces of acne instantly resolve, and the ulcers themselves dry out, leaving no scars.

Contraindications for use: individual intolerance and allergic reaction to the ointment.

Akriderm

Indications for the use of Akriderm are skin pathologies, including comedones, blackheads, pimples, acne. Hormonal ointment, the main element is glucocorticosteroid betamethasone. This pharmaceutical acne remedy has an anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous effect.

Requires caution in use, as addiction is possible. It is forbidden to apply to large areas of skin and mucous membranes.

Akriderm - various ointments and creams - Genta, GK, SK. A one-component product is sufficient, but if:

• a bacterial infection has joined - the choice of drug is gentamicin and betamethasone - Akriderm Genta;
• a fungal infection occurred - Akriderm GK.

Tetracycline ointment

The antibacterial agent contains a powerful antibiotic - tetracycline. Intended for therapy:

• extensive skin rash;
• effective against purulent acne on the shoulders, eyebrows, head;
• boil;
• trophic ulcers.

Prescribed only if weaker antibiotic ointments do not produce results.

Contraindications: mycosis, children under 12 years of age.

Tetracycline ointment is inexpensive, only 15-20 rubles.

Ichthyol ointment

This is a powerful remedy for facial rashes. The element ichthyol included in the composition creates complex therapy. Black ointment instantly removes inflammation and pain that appears from internal acne. The medication is precisely distributed to the pathological area to accelerate maturation.

Directions for use: 1 time per day until the rash disappears completely. Ichthyol ointment is also used against boils.

The limitation is sensitivity to Vaseline.

Vishnevsky ointment

Birch tar and xeroform are natural components of the medicine. Substances exhibit:

• antiseptic, absorbable seal action;
• ointment accelerates the maturation of ulcers;
• Castor oil softens the epidermis and promotes rapid healing.

The only contraindication: individual intolerance.

Baneocin

The antibacterial complex drug is suitable for the treatment of acne and folliculitis. The active substance is bacitracin, neomycin sulfate. An anti-inflammatory ointment with an antibiotic removes diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

The affected area is treated three times a day for 7 days.

Do not use for severely damaged skin.

Hydrocortisone

Glucocorticosteroid relieves swelling, itching and inflammation. Indicated for non-bacterial skin rashes.

Instructions for use: 2 times a day (morning and evening). The duration of treatment is 1-2 weeks, if necessary, you can take a 3rd week.

Restrictions on the use of the medicine are:

• infection of the epidermis by viruses, bacteria;
• younger age up to 2 years;
• pregnancy period, lactation.

Methyluracil

The main element is methyluracil, aimed at accelerating metabolism in skin tissues. The healing agent provides:

• antiseptic, antibacterial effect;
• relieves inflammation, swelling;
• strengthens the immune system.

The medicine is prescribed for acne, boils, diaper rash, carbuncle, and is also effective in the presence of subcutaneous mites.

We previously wrote about methyluracil suppositories in more detail - we recommend that you read it.

Therapeutic ointment is not recommended for use by pregnant women, women during breastfeeding, or with allergies to lanolin, paraffin, or cancer.

This remedy for acne on the face can be bought at a pharmacy for 30-80 rubles. for the tuba.

Streptocide ointment

Antimicrobial drug with a wide spectrum of effects. It kills streptococcal type bacteria. Relieves inflammation, pain, increases the process of maturation of rashes.

Indications for use: wounds, cuts, erosions, ulcers, erysipelas.

For subcutaneous acne, streptocide is best used in tablet form, crushed and applied as a compress.

Synthomycin

The cleansing product has an immediate effect. Chloramphenicol – the main component relieves inflammation. Intended for the treatment of ulcers, small spots, acne. The antibiotic kills microorganisms that cause acne.

We wrote more about this ointment in our article.

Contraindications for syntomycin ointment:

• liver, kidney failure;
• psoriasis, eczema;
• fungal skin pathologies;
• acute porphyria.

The spot remedy is applied to the pathological area. The duration of treatment is no more than 5 days.

This is a relatively inexpensive remedy for acne - you can buy it at a pharmacy from 76 rubles.

Clotrimazole

An antifungal drug fights inflammation in various parts of the body, acne. Beneficially removes acne marks and age spots.

The only limitation to the use of the ointment is skin hypersensitivity to its constituent components.

The gel is used for a month.

It may be interesting: The most effective remedies for toenail fungus.

Advantan

The active ingredient - methylprednisolone, prevents accelerated cell division, eliminates redness, itching, swelling, and rashes. It is an antiallergic agent.

Indications for use are as follows:

• childhood eczema;
• acne in teenagers;
• seborrhea, exogenous pathologies.

Therapeutic course: 1 time per day for 1 month. in children. The duration of treatment in adult patients is no more than 3 months.

Elon

Oil and larch extract are the main substances that help cope with purulent rashes. Elon ointment effectively draws out pus and relieves inflammation.

The herbal product has almost no contraindications, except for personal intolerance to the constituent components.

The cost of the medicine is 300-600 rubles, it can also be ordered through the online store.

Sinaflan

The active substance is fluocinolone acetonide. The effect of the ointment is as follows: it exhibits antipruritic, decongestant results. Suitable for the treatment of typical and atypical types of rashes. Available in the form of cream and gel.

Sinaflan cannot be used if you have:

• bacterial infection (pyoderma);
• papular acne with syphilis;
• skin tuberculosis.

Adapalene

The dermatotropic agent has an anti-inflammatory, sebostatic effect. The substance Adapalene is used for acne and blocks the development of comedones.

The drug is effective:

• softens dead skin areas, preventing their transformation into keratinized tissue;
• protects the epidermis from the introduction of infectious pathogens.

The therapeutic effect occurs gradually, after about 2-3 months.

Pimafukort

Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial express remedy. Indicated for pyoderma, mycoses, superficial dermatoses.

Fucidin

The best bacteriostatic drug, suitable for men and women. Helps cure cystic fibrosis, acne, boils.

A fast-acting antibiotic should be used up to 5 times a day.

Rescuer

A popular regenerating ointment with a softening effect. Prevents the appearance of scars and skin pits after acne, relieves pain, tightens wounds.

The balm has received a high rating on the Internet because it is an inexpensive and effective remedy.

Sulfuric ointment

Consists of precipitated sulfur, has an antimicrobial, drying effect. Helps well with:

• rash;
• subcutaneous acne;
• inflammation during a cold;
• skin parasites.

Use for about 3 weeks.

Baziron

Baziron is a proven ointment for rashes, suitable for dry skin. The medicine produces:

• antibacterial effect;
• corrects sebum secretion;
• pleasantly moisturizes the epidermis.

Effective against acne, juvenile acne, rashes.

Duration of use – 3 months.

Argosulfan

Silver sulfanilamide is the active substance. Argosulfan is an antimicrobial bacteriostatic drug. Suitable for the treatment of purulent wounds, acne, bedsores.

The cream should be applied to the painful area until the wounds are completely healed, but no more than 2 months.

Stellanin

The active ingredient is diethylbenzimidazolium triiodide. The new product kills pathogenic organisms and fungi.

Contraindications: hyperthyroidism, thyroid tumors.

Stellanin is a combined natural ointment. Use: burns, peptic ulcers, bedsores.

Oflomelid

Methyluracil, Lidocaine hydrochloride, ofloxacin - the medicine has 3 main substances. It has an antimicrobial, regenerating, analgesic effect, and helps speed up the healing process.

Prescribed for the following processes:

• trophic ulcers;
• abscess boils;
• removes white rods located in a pimple wound;
• fistulas

Oflomelid should not be used if you are under 18 years of age or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Nystatin

The antifungal antibiotic exhibits a fungicidal effect. Used for stomatitis, candidiasis, diaper rash, mycoses.

Directions for use: apply as a compress at least 2 times a day for 14 days.

Fenistil gel

The 0.1 percent emulsion is suitable for the treatment of both teenage and adult acne, comedones, blackheads, blackheads on the back and face.

Therapeutic effect:

• antipruritic;
• soothing;
• antiallergic;
• anti-bradykinin.

Contraindications: prostatic hyperplasia, sensitivity to dimethindene.

Gentamicin ointment

Used in cosmetology and medicine, treats acne, fungal dermatitis, seborrhea. Does not affect fungi or viruses.

Negative manifestations: hematopoiesis disorder, malaise, weakness, headache.

Retinoic ointment

Skin care cosmetics are effective against acne, blackheads and prevent the appearance of wrinkles in women. The ointment increases blood circulation and renews skin cells. The effect of the drug is uncertain and can lead to irritation of the epidermis, redness, and burning.

Erythromycin ointment

Used in combination with other medications. The active component of erythromycin ED copes favorably with purulent rashes, wounds, burns, and conjunctivitis.

Therapeutic course – 1 month.

Levomekol

The product is intended to eliminate rashes and ulcers. For teenagers - an excellent salvation, removes painful acne on the face and forehead.

Chloramphenicol, methyluracil – active ingredient:

• relieves inflammation;
• has an antimicrobial effect;
• dries out the skin.

Treatment should be carried out for no more than 1 month.

Lincomycin

The antibiotic removes erysipelas, pyoderma, felon, furunculosis, and purulent rash. Active ingredient: zinc oxide, lincomycin hydrochloride. Not used for renal or liver failure.

Gistan

The cosmetic product eliminates allergic rashes, relieves inflammation, relieves symptoms of the disease, regenerates the skin, and blocks the production of histamines.

Comfoderm

Methylprednisolone aceponate is the active substance. The ointment treats:

• eczema;
• dermatitis;
• inflammatory skin pathologies;
• Suitable for acne spots.

Features of use: do not exceed therapy for children for more than 28 days, for adults - 3 months.

Boromed

Antiseptic cream reduces swelling and inflammation, soothes the skin, dries out ulcers, has a resolving effect, prevents the formation of irritations after shaving, and smoothes out fine wrinkles.

Contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Is it possible to use topical NSAIDs for stomach erosions or ulcers?

According to the instructions, it can be done “with caution.” The concentration of the active substance in the blood plasma after the use of topical NSAIDs is less than 10% of that achieved by oral administration. The incidence of adverse reactions from the gastrointestinal tract when using local forms of NSAIDs does not differ from that when rubbing placebo and is significantly lower than when using systemic agents. However, just in case, these drugs are not recommended to be applied to the skin during gastrointestinal bleeding and exacerbation of gastric or duodenal ulcers [5, 14].

How many times a day and for how long can you apply such drugs?

Typically three to four times a day for two weeks. Topical NSAIDs act quite quickly - the effect occurs within an hour - and help control acute somatic pain of moderate intensity. They cope worse with chronic pain. If there is no effect within two weeks of proper use, you should consult a doctor. There is a chance that he will recommend switching to oral forms or another group of drugs.

Sources

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