Goes straight into our basket.
Have you ever fallen down an acne internet rabbit hole?
It always starts with an innocent-enough Google search after a breakout, progresses with a few link clicks, and the next thing you know, you’re scouring the depths of Amazon in an attempt to figure out how you can get your hands on the latest hero product for preventing/treating and/or covering-up spots?
America has always been the promised land of, to use their term, drugstore acne solutions - potent, available everywhere and for very little money. Can't tell you how many times we've Googled 'Differin Gel Stockists Dublin'. (It's a prescription-strength retinoid, available without a prescription, that encourages cell turnover, keeps pores clear, and it'll also fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation spots from earlier breakouts).
'Cross Continent
Until recently, people blighted with acne here have only been able to get hold of a key ingredient devoted to solving the problem, benzoyl peroxide, through pharmacies with a prescription, but now, heavy-hitting acne hero ingredients needn't be something reserved only for our sisters stateside.
Last week, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) ruled to let two products containing the miracle ingredient be released on general sale, meaning it can be bought over the counter in your local Boots.
In a huge win for those who are blemish-prone, Acnecide Face Gel and Acnecide Face Wash Gel will be formally reclassified from pharmacy to general sale list medicines.
Credit: Reddit
'Cross Counter
Chances are, if you're a Reddit forum fan (SkincareAdditicion is a personal favourite), you'll already be familiar with these products, which are much-lauded globally for treating mild acne.
But just because they now come without a Doctor's caution, doesn't mean they're any less active. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, itching and redness, so it's best to consult the packet on how often you should use it depending on your skin.
You can purchase the 'miracle' Acnecide Face Gel (30g) at Boots right now, but the store isn't currently stocking the face wash. Soon hopefully.
Go forth and stock up!
Main Image: @glossier
Read More: Dear Derm: How Do I Tackle Acne Scars?
