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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Symptoms, Causes, Treatments & Prevention
Do you have these acne symptoms?
Book a Pharmacist appointment if you're experiencing:
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Tender red bumps
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Skin inflammation
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Pus-filled lesions or pustules
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Blackheads
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Whiteheads
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.
What causes acne?
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.
What are the treatment options for acne?
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 vs Salicylic Acid
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
Hero Mighty Patch Invisible+ 24 Pk
(Hydrocolloid): Absorbs impurities and helps flatten pimples while protecting skin
Jubel Skin Rescue Hypochlorous Acid Spray 110 Ml
(Hypochlorous Acid): Helps eliminate acne-causing bacteria while calming irritation
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum 29 Ml
(Retinol + Niacinamide): Renews skin and smooths texture while helping balance oil
Lrp Effaclar Az Cream 40 Ml
(Azelaic Acid): Helps reduce breakouts and visibly improve tone and post-acne marks
Benzagel Gel 5% 30 Gr
(Benzoyl Peroxide 5%): Kills acne-causing bacteria to clear and prevent breakouts
Cerave Acne Foaming Cleanser 150 Ml
(Benzoyl Peroxide): Cleanses pores and helps eliminate breakouts at the source
Panoxyl Acne Banish Body Spray 2% Sa 170 Gr
(Salicylic Acid 2%): Unclogs pores and clears body breakouts for smoother skin
Cetaphil Gentle Sa Moisturizer Acne Trmt 89 Ml
(Salicylic Acid + Licorice Root): Clears pores while helping brighten and even skin tone
Learn More
Skin Care
Learn MoreYour skin health is important. Discover skin care routines and find the right skin care products to help you maintain healthy skin.
Scalp Health
Learn MoreDry, itchy scalp? Understand different scalp conditions and treatment options.
Acne Prescriptions
Learn MoreYour Rexall Pharmacist can recommend and prescribe cleansers, creams, gels and antibiotics to treat mild-to-moderate acne.
Frequently asked questions.
Can a Pharmacist prescribe acne medication?
Yes, Pharmacists can prescribe acne medications that require a prescription. Book an appointment or visit us in-store to discuss your options.
How do pimple patches work?
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.
What is the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin?
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.
What are the best sunblocks for acne-prone skin?
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.
Is salicylic acid good for acne?
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.