Adult acne: what effective treatments are available without a prescription?

Contrary to popular belief, acne does not only affect teenagers. Adult acne, particularly in women over 25, is a common dermatological problem. This article presents commonly used cosmetic active ingredients for support, for informational purposes.

What is adult acne?

Adult acne is an inflammatory or retentional form that persists or appears after adolescence. The causes are multifactorial: hormonal imbalance, stress, comedogenic cosmetics, or diet [1]. In cases of moderate to severe acne, a dermatological consultation is recommended.

Cosmetic active ingredients commonly associated with anti-blemish routines

Salicylic Acid

As an exfoliant from the BHA family, it penetrates pores and helps unclog blackheads [2].

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 is studied for its sebum-regulating and soothing properties, and can improve skin texture [3].

Azelaic Acid

Some cosmetic formulations based on low-concentration azelaic acid are used in daily care; more concentrated formulations are classified as medication and require a prescription – a distinction that should be clearly made.

Cosmetic Retinol (to be distinguished from medicinal retinoids)

Cosmetic retinol, available in concentrations regulated by cosmetic regulations, promotes cell renewal. Use with caution on reactive skin [4].

⚠️ Important clarification: in most of its formulations marketed in France, benzoyl peroxide is classified as a medication (sold exclusively in pharmacies). Pharma+ France is a parapharmacy and does not sell medications – therefore, we do not offer this type of product. For treatment with benzoyl peroxide, please consult your pharmacist or doctor.

Practical tips for a routine

• Cleanse the face twice a day with a gentle, pH-neutral gel.
• Avoid combining several exfoliating active ingredients at once.
• Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
• Protect the skin from the sun, as some active ingredients are photosensitizing.
• Consult a dermatologist in case of moderate to severe or persistent acne.

Availability on Pharmaplusfrance.store

We do not currently offer a dedicated topical anti-acne range on the site. Consult our Face & Body Care collection for available references.

Scientific References

1. Dréno B. et al. Adult female acne: a physiological approach. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. (source to be verified for exact reference)
2. Del Rosso JQ. The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015. (source to be verified)
3. Draelos ZD. Niacinamide: a B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2006. (source to be verified)
4. Sivamani RK et al. Retinoids and the skin: mechanisms and therapeutic potential. J Dermatol Treat. 2020. (source to be verified)

Important correction note: the previous version of this article cited a Vidal sheet explicitly qualifying benzoyl peroxide as an "over-the-counter medication," while also presenting it as a "product available on Pharmaplusfrance.store" – which was inconsistent with the site's parapharmacy status. This section has been corrected. A reference to the EMA (medicines agency) has also been removed.

---