Acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles under the skin are clogged by oil gland secretions and become inflamed. It's most common in teens but can continue into adulthood.

All About Acne
All About Acne

Speak to a Pharmacist to Prescribe for Mild Acne

Visit a Rexall near you or book an appointment to discuss your health concerns. Your pharmacist will conduct an assessment and write a prescription for you, if appropriate.

Rexall Pharmacist

Questions You Might Have

While the cause of most acne comes down to clogged pores, there are several different types:

Comedonal acne

This type is made up of typically painless blackheads or whiteheads, which are the result of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells forming a plug near the skin's surface.

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Comedonal acne

Cystic acne

A combination of bacteria, dead skin cells, and sebum that clog up the dermis (the skin's middle layer), cystic acne is the most severe and painful type. When the inflammation damages the skin tissue, scarring can occur.

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Cystic acne

Fungal acne

Caused by an overgrowth of a yeast which builds up in hair follicles and makes the skin itchy as well as irritated. This type of acne can only be treated with anti-fungal medication.

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Fungal acne

Hormonal acne

Any changes in hormones can affect the quality of the oil your skin produces and how it flows. Breakouts can range from blackheads to cysts, and can be triggered by puberty, periods, pregnancy, and menopause.

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Hormonal acne

Nodular acne

Characterized by tender, red, or pus-filled bumps on or under the skin, this type is caused when the wall of the clogged pore erupts and spreads. The body's immune system floods the pimple area with white blood cells, causing inflammation.

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Nodular acne

Symptoms, Causes, Treatments & Prevention

Do you have these acne symptoms?

Book a Pharmacist appointment if you're experiencing:

  • Tender red bumps
  • Skin inflammation
  • Pus-filled lesions or pustules
  • Blackheads
  • Whiteheads

Use the symptom checker to explore your symptoms and discover where to find the right care for you.

Woman using phone to check acne symptoms
  • Book a Pharmacist appointment if you're experiencing:

    • Tender red bumps
    • Skin inflammation
    • Pus-filled lesions or pustules
    • Blackheads
    • Whiteheads

    Use the symptom checker to explore your symptoms and discover where to find the right care for you.

  • Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles under the skin are clogged by oil gland secretions and become inflamed. Acne often appears on the face, but can also show up on the back, chest, upper arms, and shoulders. It's most common in teens but can continue into adulthood.

  • Fortunately, acne is manageable. Whether you need over-the-counter products for mild acne, prescription medication for moderate to severe acne, or just tips on how to take care of your skin, Rexall offers a variety of acne treatment options, including:

    • Acne patches
    • Acne spot treatments
    • Acne face washes
    • Acne cleansers
    • Acne gel
    • Acne pads

    Speak with one of our Pharmacists in-store or online about the right acne products for you.

  • Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are two common active ingredients in acne treatments. Available over-the-counter, they both have acne-fighting properties, but differ in how they react:

    Benzoyl Peroxide

    • Kills acne-causing bacteria
    • Treats red, pus-filled pimples
    • Can dry out skin

    Salicylic Acid

    • Exfoliates dead skin and clears pores
    • Treats blackheads and whiteheads
    • Better for sensitive skin

Shop Acne Products

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Skin Care

Your skin health is important. Discover skin care routines and find the right skin care products to help you maintain healthy skin.

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Scalp Health

Dry, itchy scalp? Understand different scalp conditions and treatment options.

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Acne Prescriptions

Your Rexall Pharmacist can recommend and prescribe cleansers, creams, gels and antibiotics to treat mild-to-moderate acne.

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Frequently asked questions.

  • Yes, Pharmacists can prescribe acne medications that require a prescription. Book an appointment or visit us in-store to discuss your options.

  • Pimple patches work by absorbing excess fluids like pus and oil. They also create a protective barrier, which helps to prevent picking, in turn reducing scarring and risk of infection.

  • The best moisturizers for acne-prone skin are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and lightweight. Look for ones with ingredients including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, as these will all hydrate the skin without clogging pores.

  • Keep your pores unclogged with a sunblock that's non-comedogenic, oil-free and lightweight. Also look for active, mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

  • Yes, salicylic acid is used to help treat mild acne. Salicylic acid treatment options vary and are available as over-the-counter and prescription products. Speak with a Pharmacist to determine the best option for you.