Topical Acne Preparations

• Wash your skin with cleanser, rinse and pat dry
• Wash your hands before and after applying the medication
• Apply enough medication on the affected areas according to your doctor's instructions.
• For medications that are in the liquid form and comes in a bottle with an applicator tip, you may either
• Dab the applicator directly on the affected areas
• Dab the applicator onto your clean fingertips and transfer it to the affected area
• Avoid applying the medication on broken skin or too near to your  eyes, mouth and nose as it may cause irritation
• Flush the area thoroughly with water if the medication accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, and nose
• For benzoyl peroxide: Avoid contact with hair or coloured clothing as it may cause bleaching

​If you forgot to apply a dose of this medication, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the dose if it is time for the next dose. Apply your next dose at the usual time. Do not apply two doses to make up for the missed dose.

• ​Avoid washing your face too often as this may increase the drying-out effect of your topical acne preparation. Wash your face 2 to 3 times a day only.
• Avoid applying heavy make-up and using oily cosmetics. It is recommended to choose make-up products with non-oily formulas.
• Avoid staying directly under sunlight for long durations. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen product with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and wear protective clothing when you are exposed to direct sunlight.
• These medications do not work immediately. You may need to apply the medication for a few weeks to see an improvement in you condition.