Any OTC remedies for blackheads and oily skin in Singapore?

Doctor's Answers 2

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

Heya Wei,

To add on to Dr Ethan's good suggestions:

1. Regular clay masking can help prevent sebum build-up.

2. AHA or BHA Acid toners used once to twice daily help keep enlarged pores and excessive oil production in check.

3. Differin and retin can actually now be purchased from your local pharmacy without a prescription. I would, however, still consult a doctor about its use as it can be irritative to skin, especially when used in combination with other over-the-counter products containing low dose acids or retins. Furthermore, its use in certain populations (such as pregnant patients or those trying to conceive) is not recommended.

At the end of the day, do realise that pores are the living, breathing units of your skin - its a never ending cycle so maintenance is key!

Best,

Shane

Similar Questions

How effective is differin cream for PIH and acne?

Differin (a. k. a. Adapalene) is generally the most well-tolerated retinoid and hence it is widely used for acne. It is alright to use a thin layer over the affected areas only but it has benefits for the skin over the whole face so I like to recommend it for full face use. Important notes: Moisturise your face after using Differin.

What are effective remedies for enlarged pores, oily skin and multiple recurrent blemishes?

Based on my personal experience over the years with patients, I can recommend the follow treatments: For enlarged pores: Hollywood Peel aka Carbon laser Peel (no downtime) Venus Viva Fractional RF (some redness for about 3 days but more effective) Chemical peels Oily skin: Hollywood Peel Oral medications (Roaccutane, OCPs for females, other hormonal altering medications) Blackheads: Manual extraction Exfoliation Hope that helps. All the best!

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