Botanicals

Although products cannot be sold bearing an anti-acne label unless they contain an OTC approved ingredient, many botanical formulations are marketed towards the acne-prone consumer claiming to “heal,” “purify,” or “cleanse” the skin and pores. Companies promote their proprietary formula of herb extracts, but well-conducted clinical studies are lacking, and therefore it is difficult to understand the true efficacy of these products. The formulation may include different herb extracts with various activities (antimicrobial, anti­oxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothing, etc.).