Indications
This is a skin-care range for oily and acne-prone skin, including purifying foaming gels for face and body, and leave-on gels or creams. It is used to cleanse excess oil (sebum), help unclog pores, reduce blackheads, whiteheads and shine, and support the skin during mild to moderate acne or alongside acne treatment prescribed by a doctor.
How It Works
Oily skin produces too much sebum, which mixes with dead skin cells to block pores; bacteria then cause red spots. These products usually combine a gentle soap-free cleanser that removes oil without stripping the skin, ingredients such as zinc that help control sebum, and mild exfoliating acids (such as salicylic or glycolic acid) that loosen dead cells and clear pores. Some also contain soothing agents to reduce redness and irritation.
Dosage and Administration
- Foaming cleanser: once or twice daily, lather on wet skin, massage gently, rinse well and pat dry.
- Leave-on gel or cream: apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin once or twice daily, avoiding the eyes and lips.
Follow the directions on the label for the specific product. Results are usually seen after 3 to 4 weeks of regular use.
Interactions
Using these products together with other strong acne treatments (such as Benzoyl Peroxide, Tretinoin, Adapalene or Isotretinoin) can increase dryness and irritation. If you use prescribed acne medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to combine them.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredient. Avoid on broken, sunburned, eczema-affected or infected skin.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Possible effects include:
- Mild stinging, tingling or redness, especially at first
- Dryness, tightness or peeling
- Rarely, an allergic rash
Stop using and seek urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, eyes or lips, a severe burning rash, blistering or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Gentle cleansers are generally fine in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Leave-on products with exfoliating acids should be checked with your doctor or pharmacist first, and they should not be applied to the breast area while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes; if it gets into the eyes, rinse well with water.
- Use sunscreen during the day, as exfoliating products can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.
- Test on a small patch of skin first if you have sensitive skin.
- See a doctor for severe, painful, cystic or scarring acne, which needs prescription treatment.
Overdose
Using it more often than directed can dry and irritate the skin; reduce use. If a child swallows a product, give water to drink and contact a doctor for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Dermocosmetic skin care for oily and acne-prone skin
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Close the cap tightly after use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.