Top 4 Dermatologist-Recommended Ingredients For Treating Acne
Stick with what's been clinically-proven and trusted for years, says Dr. Pimple Popper.
Published:
4 minute read
There’s no shortage of advice on the best ways to treat acne, and it can be difficult to know where to start. Skincare is not one size fits all, and your specific type of acne might be more responsive to certain ingredients over others.
According to dermatologist and SLMD founder Sandra Lee, MD (aka Dr. Pimple Popper), there are a handful of tried-and-true dermatological ingredients proven to help prevent and treat acne. We're breaking down the four most effective over-the-counter options.
Benzoyl peroxide: The best ingredient for inflammatory acne
Benzoyl peroxide (BP) is found in acne treatments across the board, and for good reason. When it comes to its acne-fighting qualities, benzoyl peroxide destroys bacteria on the surface of the skin as well as inside pores and pimples. It works by:
- Killing bacteria
- Curbing oil
- Loosening dead cells
As an anti-inflammatory, benzoyl peroxide reduces the swelling, pain and redness associated with inflammatory pimples. If you experience papules, pustules, or deeper nodules and cysts, over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide is Dr. Lee’s go-to recommendation.
Dr. Pimple Popper tip: "Benzoyl peroxide is known for bleaching fabrics, so be sure to use white towels or wait for your product to dry completely before heading to bed."
You may notice positive changes quickly, but you may also experience purging — when breakouts temporarily get worse. It could take several weeks or treatment with benzoyl peroxide to see a dramatic decrease in your acne.
Try: SLMD Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion, BP Acne Spot Treatment, BP Body Wash
Salicylic acid: Deep pore cleansing for blackheads and oily skin
Derived from the chemical compound salicin, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) naturally found in willow tree bark. Because it is oil-soluble, it can penetrate the skin deeper than alpha hydroxy acids to:
- Deep clean pores
- Dissolve sebum
- Exfoliate skin
When treating acne, salicylic acid crystallizes and penetrates pores to clear out the bacteria and dead skin cells that get trapped in our skin’s sebum, leading to clogged pores and inflammatory acne.
Dr. Pimple Popper's Salicylic Acid Acne Fighters
Sulfur: The gentle acne treatment for sensitive skin
One of the oldest known acne treatments in dermatology, sulfur remains a favorite for acne-prone sensitive skin. It limits the growth of bacteria on the skin’s surface while exfoliating and shedding dead skin cells. Sulfur is unique because it:
- Absorbs oil
- Inhibits bacteria
- Dries active acne
Sulfur provides a drying effect on active acne without dehydrating the surrounding skin. It is an ideal substitute for those who cannot tolerate more aggressive actives, and deciding between benzoyl peroxide vs. sulfur depends largely on your barrier's tolerance level.
Retinol: Clearing breakouts and improving skin texture
Retinol is an over-the-counter retinoid derived from vitamin A that is most effective when applied at night during the skin’s natural regeneration phase. It helps manage breakouts and uneven skin by:
- Normalizing cell turnover
- Preventing pore buildup
- Fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
By accelerating the shedding of pigmented cells and preventing the breakdown of collagen, retinol ensures the pore lining remains clear while simultaneously evening out skin discoloration and improving texture.
Try: SLMD Retinol Resurfacing Serum
How to build a complete acne routine with Dr. Pimple Popper
Achieving clear skin often requires a coordinated approach that targets acne at every stage of its life cycle — from initial congestion to active inflammation. When different active ingredients are used in isolation or mixed incorrectly, it can often lead to unnecessary irritation and a compromised skin barrier.
Layering these powerful ingredients in specific concentrations helps maximize their effectiveness while keeping the skin balanced and hydrated. This is exactly why Dr. Lee suggests starting with an acne kit, as these systems are pre-formulated to ensure ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid work in tandem rather than in opposition.
Try: SLMD Acne System, Acne Essentials Routine, Body Acne System
Common questions about acne treatment ingredients
Q: What is the most effective ingredient for acne?
A: The "best" ingredient depends on your acne type. Benzoyl peroxide is the gold standard for inflammatory acne (red bumps), while salicylic acid is highly effective for non-inflammatory acne like blackheads and whiteheads.
Q: Can I use benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid together?
A: Yes, but it is important to introduce them slowly to avoid over-drying. Many people find success using a salicylic acid cleanser and a benzoyl peroxide treatment as part of a formulated system that balances both.
Q: Is sulfur better than benzoyl peroxide for sensitive skin?
A: Sulfur is generally much gentler, making it a preferred alternative for those with extreme sensitivity, rosacea, or an allergy to benzoyl peroxide. It provides antibacterial benefits without intense irritation.
Q: How long does it take for acne ingredients to work?
A: Consistency is vital. While some ingredients show immediate results in pore-clearing, it typically takes 6 to 12 weeks of consistent use to see a significant reduction in overall breakouts.
Dr. Lee's Last Word
There are a few ingredients that are very effective for managing acne that we dermatologists rely on for our patients. The good news is that many of them are available over-the-counter, so you don't have to visit your doctor to start your acne routine.
