FDA Approves New Over The Counter Acne Drug

WRITTEN BY: Julianne Chiaet

About 17 million people in the U.S. suffer from acne. Now, the FDA recently approved a new over the counter acne medication for people 12 years and older. The drug, called adapalene .1% gel Differin, fights acne, sun damage, enlarged pores, dark spots, and wrinkles. It is the first potent retinoid of its kind to be approved for over the counter use.

Acne is chronic inflammation of the skin. It involves blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and pimples that occur anywhere on the body. Acne usually first shows itself during puberty. About 8 to 10 preteens suffer from acne. The skin condition also affects adults.

"Millions of consumers, from adolescents to adults, suffer from acne," said Lesley Furlong, deputy director of the Office of New Drugs IV in the FDA. "Now, consumers have access to a new safe and effective over-the-counter option."

Sources: FDA.gov, Elle.com, wochit News

About the Author

Julianne Chiaet

Bachelor's (BA/BS/Other)

Julianne (@JuliChiaet) covers health and medicine for LabRoots. Her work has been published in The Daily Beast, Scientific American, and MailOnline. While primarily a science journalist, she has also covered culture and Japanese organized crime. She is the New York Board Representative for the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA). • To read more of her writing, or to send her a message, go to Jchiaet.com

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