Do Different Brands of Acne Creams Work Differently? A Dermatologist's Insight

Acne medication: concerns about topical treatments?

Hello, doctor.
I have been struggling with acne for a long time, often developing cystic acne on my face.
The dermatologist I have been seeing regularly has prescribed me Clindamycin gel to apply all over my face and Adapalene cream for larger pimples.
My skin condition has been stable for the past couple of years, except for occasional larger breakouts.
Recently, due to personal reasons, I found it inconvenient to return for follow-ups, so I took the container of Adapalene cream to the pharmacy, and the pharmacist provided me with a tube of a cream with the same ingredients.
However, after using it, I did not see any improvement.
Does the difference in brand with the same ingredients affect the efficacy of the cream? Also, does Adapalene cream contain antibiotics or steroids? Is it safe for long-term use? Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/02

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Antibiotics should only be used when necessary; generally speaking, their efficacy does not vary significantly.

Reply Date: 2023/08/02

More Info

When it comes to acne treatments, the effectiveness of different brands can indeed vary, even if the active ingredients are the same. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including the formulation of the cream, the presence of inactive ingredients, and individual skin responses.

Firstly, while two creams may contain the same active ingredient, the formulation can differ significantly. For example, one brand may use a different base or additional components that can enhance the absorption of the active ingredient or improve the overall texture and feel of the product on the skin. These differences can influence how well the medication penetrates the skin and how effectively it treats acne. Additionally, some formulations may include soothing agents or moisturizers that can help mitigate irritation, which is particularly important for those with sensitive skin.

Secondly, inactive ingredients can play a crucial role in the overall effectiveness of a topical treatment. Ingredients such as preservatives, emulsifiers, and stabilizers can affect the stability and efficacy of the active ingredient. For instance, if a cream has a higher concentration of preservatives, it may lead to skin irritation, which can counteract the benefits of the active ingredient. Therefore, even if the active ingredients are identical, the overall formulation can lead to different results.

Moreover, individual skin types and conditions can significantly influence how a product works. Factors such as skin sensitivity, oiliness, and the presence of other skin conditions (like eczema or rosacea) can affect how well a particular product performs. What works well for one person may not necessarily work for another, even with the same active ingredients.

Regarding your specific question about the "膚喜定" cream, it is essential to clarify its composition. If it contains both an antibiotic and a steroid, it is crucial to use it as directed by your dermatologist. Long-term use of topical steroids can lead to skin thinning and other side effects, so it is generally recommended to use such products under medical supervision. If you have switched to a different brand and are not seeing the same results, it may be worthwhile to consult your dermatologist to discuss your concerns and explore alternative treatments.

In summary, while the active ingredients in acne treatments are crucial, the overall formulation, inactive ingredients, and individual skin responses can lead to varying results between different brands. If you find that a new product is not working as effectively as your previous treatment, it may be beneficial to return to your dermatologist for further evaluation and recommendations tailored to your skin's needs.

Similar Q&A

Achieving Smooth Skin: Solutions for Acne and Skin Care Concerns

Hello Doctor: My skin was originally good, but since moving to Hsinchu, it has not been well. I easily develop comedones on my cheeks and forehead, which are open comedones. After extracting them with a comedone extractor, they do not fade easily. I have fair skin, so any acne sc...

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
You can try using salicylic acid for chemical peeling, which is relatively less irritating. As for Differin and Airol, both are forms of vitamin A acid; however, Differin is a second-generation retinoid while Airol is a first-generation retinoid. The main difference lies in their...

Choosing the Right Skincare for Acne: DMS Products and Asian Skin

Have you heard of the skincare brand DMS? I am considering purchasing their products to treat my acne, but I'm unsure if they are suitable for Asian skin types since I am prone to breakouts. Recently, during winter, I have been experiencing more comedonal acne. Could this be...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Hello: While choosing a brand is certainly important, the most crucial factor is whether the products you select are suitable for acne-prone skin. There are many reasons for the development of acne and pimples, but it is unlikely that astringent toners are causing excessive dryne...

Understanding Acne Treatment: Morning vs. Night Creams Explained

I visited a dermatologist who prescribed two ointments: Aczo Gel Sinphar and Azelaic Acid. I forgot which ointment serves which purpose, but I remember the doctor mentioned that one should be applied in the morning and the other at night. One can only be applied to new red acne, ...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
In principle, ACZO can only cause new acne lesions in the short term.

Choosing the Right Skincare: Medical vs. Natural Products for Sensitive Skin

I heard that long-term use of topical medications prescribed by dermatologists for treating acne can make the skin more sensitive. Is this correct? Initially, these treatments are very effective, but after stopping the medication, there may be side effects or worsening of the con...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
There are many types of medications for acne, and those that have exfoliating and comedolytic effects can make the skin more sensitive. There is no medication that can completely eradicate acne; if left untreated, it will recur not due to the medication but because it returns to ...