What are acne ointments?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, acne ointments mainly include tretinoin cream, fusidic acid cream, adapalene gel, chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment, and benzoyl peroxide gel. Patients are advised to use these medications appropriately under the guidance of a physician to avoid adverse reactions from self-medication. At the same time, it is important to keep the skin clean and dry, and refrain from squeezing acne with hands to prevent worsening inflammation or scarring.

Generally, acne ointments mainly include tretinoin cream, fusidic acid cream, adapalene gel, chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment, benzoyl peroxide gel, and other medications. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Tretinoin Cream

Tretinoin cream has anti-keratotic effects, helping to reduce keratinous blockage at the opening of the pilosebaceous duct, promoting the expulsion of comedones, and relieving discomfort caused by acne such as redness, swelling, pain, and inflammatory reactions.

2. Fusidic Acid Cream

Fusidic acid cream is an antibiotic that kills or inhibits the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, reduces inflammation, and promotes acne healing. However, avoid using it concurrently with other antibiotic medications to prevent the development of drug resistance.

3. Adapalene Gel

Adapalene gel is a third-generation retinoid with anti-inflammatory and anti-keratotic properties. It helps reduce comedone formation and alleviates acne symptoms such as papules and pustules.

4. Chlortetracycline Hydrochloride Ointment

Chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics and has broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. It effectively kills Propionibacterium acnes, reduces skin inflammation and redness, and is suitable for treating mild to moderate acne.

5. Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

Benzoyl peroxide gel is a strong oxidizing agent that kills Propionibacterium acnes, reduces sebum secretion on the skin surface, relieves inflammatory papules and pustules, and accelerates skin recovery.

Patients are advised to use the above medications appropriately under the guidance of a physician to avoid adverse reactions from self-medication. Additionally, maintaining clean and dry skin and refraining from squeezing acne lesions are important to prevent worsening inflammation or scarring.