Over the Counter Products for Acne Treatment and Maintenance in Latin America: A Review of Current Clinical Practice

Abstract

Background: The prevalence and clinical presentation of acne vulgaris in Latin America are comparable to that in Europe and the United States. This review aims at insight into the role of Over the Counter (OTC) products in acne treatment and maintenance in Latin America. Methods: A panel of dermatologists from Latin America employed an online procedure to answer questions on this topic: What is used, by whom, when, how, and why? Before the meeting, a survey was completed by dermatologists from Latin America on OTC products for acne recommended by the panel in their clinical practice. The survey information and a literature review on Latin American acne guidelines and clinical studies were used to address this topic. Results: The survey responders' choices on OTC products for monotherapy comprised alpha-hydroxy acid and beta-hydroxy acid-containing serum, ceramides-containing foaming cleanser, a soap-free exfoliating cleanser, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide-containing products. The clinicians recommended OTC cleansing products mainly for younger patients at a starter level and for women with adult acne. The use of these OTC products is similar to practice Dodescribed Not in Copy therapeutic acne guidelines and algorithms for Latin American countries, Conclusions: Spain Advisors and Portugal, agreed Europe, that OTC and products the United and Penalties skincare States. recommendations, Applyin addition to the use of prescription medications, are a crucial part of successful acne therapy. Participants noted that the use of quality OTC products could improve acne symptomatology and severity.