AboutBarbara Judge Expertise Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.
Question I've been using Salicylic Acid 2% pads to wipe away excess oil on my nose to help unclog pores, but it sometimes causes contact dermatitis. Is there anything else over the counter that I could use, especially in the form of pads or liquid I could put on a pad to wipe away the oil? Thanks
Answer The most common ingredients in over the counter acne products are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alcohol, and acetone. Most of them are available in the form of pads or could be used with pads. In the US Stridex manufacturers both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid premade pads. They use varied concentrations of alcohol as the base. I would not recommend using acetone directly on the skin even if you could find somewhere to purchase pure acetone. I would recommend switching to the benzoyl peroxide pads to see if you can tolerate using those. If not, you will need to see a doctor.
