Common over the counter acne treatment contains the active ingredients benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. They control acne by killing bacteria and unclogging pores. Prescription drugs which contain derivatives of vitamin A are much more effective at controlling acne. Both OTC and prescription acne medications can be used for other applications.
Treating Skin Aliments
In addition to treating acne, salicylic acid can treat psoriasis, corns, warts and calluses. Tazarotene, which is a prescription medication for acne, can also be used to treat sun damaged skin. Tretinoin, another prescription acne medication, can be used to treat keratosis pilaris, a skin condition characterized by rough bumps.
Bleaching Agent
Benzoyl peroxide is a strong bleaching agent. Its concentration in acne medications ranges from 2.5% to 10%. At higher concentrations, benzoyl peroxide can be used to bleach hair and whiten teeth.
Cancer Treatment
Tretinoin can be used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia. Tretinoin is made of retinoic acid, which helps immature blood cells differentiate. This can lessen the impact of the disease. Isotretinoin, a prescription acne medication, can be used to treat neuroblastoma, a type of brain cancer.
Uses in Food Industry
Salicylic acid is used in the food industry as a food preservative. Benzoyl peroxide is used in the preparation of flour.
