I have adult acne that drugstore products cannot fix. What should I do?

You should see a board-certified dermatologist to get prescription-strength medications, as drugstore products are unlikely to treat deep, painful, or scarring acne effectively [1][3].

Dermatologists recommend the following specific treatments for adult acne that hasn't responded to over-the-counter (OTC) options:

1. Prescription Topical Medications

If OTC products fail, doctors often prescribe stronger versions of common ingredients or new classes of drugs:

• Topical Retinoids: These encourage cell turnover to unclog pores and prevent new blemishes (often a first-line treatment) [7][15].
• Benzoyl Peroxide (Prescription Strength): Used to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation [7][9].
• Topical Antibiotics or Anti-inflammatories: Such as dapsone gel, to reduce inflammation and bacteria [7][11].

2. Oral Medications (Systemic Treatments)

For moderate to severe, deep, or hormonal acne, oral prescriptions are frequently necessary:

• Oral Antibiotics: Used to calm inflammation and reduce bacteria internally, especially for acne on the face, neck, chest, or back [7][13].
• Hormonal Blockers: For women with hormonally influenced acne, options include birth control pills (e.g., Ortho Tri-Cyclen) to lower testosterone or spironolactone to reduce oil production [7][11][15].
• Isotretinoin (Accutane): Considered the "gold standard" for severe cystic nodules and lesions that cause scarring, but it requires strict dermatologist supervision due to significant side effects [7][13][17].

3. Procedures and Lifestyle Adjustments

• Procedures: Dermatologists may recommend chemical peels (glycolic or salicylic acid) or blue light therapy to clear acne more quickly [11][15].
• Lifestyle: Reduce stress, prioritize sleep, and avoid high-sugar foods; switch to non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products and avoid fragrances or alcohol that irritate adult skin [5][8][11].

Important Next Steps

• Do not stop seeing a doctor if OTC fails: If you have tried OTC products for several weeks without help, or if you have large, painful pimples that sit deep in your skin, medical intervention is the standard next step [3][1].
• Patience with new treatments: Once prescribed a treatment, use it consistently for 6 to 8 weeks before expecting results, and do not add other products during this time [1][14].

Since your acne is persistent and not fixed by drugstore items, scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist is the most effective way to prevent scarring and clear your skin [1][4].