Hi Wei
Some basic thing you could try first –
- With your face with non-soap facial cleansers such as Cetaphil. You don’t need to wash more than twice a day as this will increase oil production. Can pick up cheaply from Watsons/Guardian.
- Decrease frequency of moisturization if your face is oily, as one of the causes of acne is the oil your own glands produce. You should also use sunblock and moisturizers specifically designed for people with acne. They will usually say “non-comedogenic” (won’t cause pimples).
- For OTC creams in Singapore, you can try benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. I prefer the former. Again, both available in Watsons, Guardian, etc. Cheap too.
- Both help to decrease the amount of blackheads and blocked pores by encouraging skin turnover. (Other creams do this too, such as Retin-A and Differin, but as of now you will still need a doctor’s prescription).
- Benzoyl peroxide is the cheapest, most effective over-the-counter acne remedy.
- Salicylic acid works as an anti-inflammatory agent and is an good first-line choice for mild acne. You’ll find that it’s the main active ingredient in many OTC acne facial washes, etc.
- Do take note that both can be quite drying, so don’t overuse. 1-2x applications a day is enough.
If these topical agents don’t work, you can see a doctor for more options. There are lots of effective ways to get rid of acne.
Cheers