Acne Products

Over-the-counter (OTC) acne products are regulated by the FDA through a monograph system. This means there are specific rules manufacturers must follow to ensure their products are safe and effective. These rules cover things like the types and concentrations of ingredients allowed in the product, as well as the labeling. There are five ingredients currently approved for OTC acne treatment: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, and combinations of resorcinol or resorcinol monoacetate with sulfur. These ingredients work in various ways to combat acne such as reducing the number of acne pimples, blackheads or whiteheads and and allows skin to heal.

Active Ingredients OTC Monograph Number
Benzoyl peroxide, 2.5 to 10 percentM006.10 (Part 333)
Resorcinol, 2 percent, when combined with sulfur M006.10 (Part 333)
Resorcinol monoacetate, 3 percent, when combined with sulfurM006.10 (Part 333)
Salicylic acid, 0.5 to 2 percentM006.10 (Part 333)
Sulfur, 3 to 10 percentM006.10 (Part 333)
Sulfur, 3 to 8 percent when combined with resorcinol or resorcinol monoacetateM006.10 (Part 333)