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Mild Acne

If drugstore face washes aren't clearing your skin, the next step doesn't have to be a months-long wait for a dermatologist referral. At our Orleans pharmacy, a licensed pharmacist can assess mild acne and prescribe evidence-based topical treatments — retinoids like adapalene, topical antibiotics, and combination products — free with your Ontario health card.

Mild acne shows up as whiteheads, blackheads, and the occasional inflamed pimple on the face, chest, back, or shoulders. It happens when pores get blocked by oil and dead skin cells — it isn't caused by poor hygiene, and over-washing can actually make it worse.

Consistency beats intensity

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting 35–90% of adolescents — and it's not just for teens: adult acne is increasingly common, especially in women. Even mild acne can affect confidence and mood, and picking or harsh scrubbing raises the risk of scarring. The good news: most mild acne responds well to consistent daily treatment, though it typically takes 6–8 weeks to see real improvement — which is why having the right regimen from the start matters.

Acne affects up to 90% of adolescents, and adult acne (over age 25) most often affects women. Treatments need 6–8 weeks of consistent use before judging results — switching products every two weeks is the most common reason treatment 'fails.'

Common signs and symptoms

Whiteheads and blackheads (clogged pores)
Red, inflamed pimples, mainly on the face, chest, back, or shoulders
Oily skin, especially in the T-zone
Occasional tender, deeper spots

Treatments our Orleans pharmacist can prescribe

For your information only: in Ontario, our pharmacist can assess this condition and, when appropriate, prescribe from the medications listed below. This information is provided for educational purposes — it is not an offer to sell. These are treatments that require a pharmacist assessment, and the right option is chosen for you.

Skin & mucous membrane agents: Adapalene (Differin), Azelaic acid (Finacea), Benzoyl peroxide (Benzac), Clindamycin (Dalacin T; combinations Clindoxyl, BenzaClin, Biacna), Dapsone (Aczone), Erythromycin (Eryderm, Erysol; combination Benzamycin), Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid, Tazarotene (Tazorac, Arazlo), Tretinoin (Retin-A, Stieva-A, Retin-A Micro), Trifarotene (Aklief)

Self-care that helps

Benzoyl peroxide washes and gels (e.g., Benzac, PanOxyl)
Salicylic acid cleansers and toners to help unclog pores
Non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers
Non-comedogenic sunscreen SPF 30+ — several acne treatments increase sun sensitivity

Browse related over-the-counter options in our Mild Acne self-care collection, or ask us in store — our pharmacists will point you to what actually helps.

How the assessment works

1. Walk in or callNo appointment or referral needed. Drop by our pharmacy on St-Joseph Blvd in Orleans during opening hours, or call ahead.

2. Private consultationA licensed pharmacist reviews your symptoms, health history and medications in a short, private assessment.

3. Prescription in handIf appropriate, we prescribe and fill your treatment on the spot — you leave with what you need.

Frequently asked questions

What acne treatments can an Ontario pharmacist prescribe?

Topical treatments: retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene, trifarotene), topical antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin), azelaic acid, dapsone, and combination gels. Oral antibiotics and isotretinoin (Accutane) require a physician — if your acne needs them, we'll tell you and point you in the right direction.

How long until I see results?

Expect 6–8 weeks of consistent use before clear improvement, sometimes with mild irritation or purging in the first weeks. We'll show you how to start slowly to minimize irritation.

Does diet cause acne?

Evidence is mixed. High-glycemic diets and some dairy may aggravate acne in some people, but no single food causes it. Focus on consistent treatment first.

Is the pharmacist assessment covered by OHIP?

Yes. The minor ailment assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. You only pay for the medication itself if one is prescribed, and that is often covered by your drug plan.

Do I need an appointment at your Orleans pharmacy?

No. Walk-ins are welcome during all pharmacy hours — Monday to Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. You can also call 613-824-3111 ahead of your visit.

When to see a doctor instead: See a health-care provider if you have extensive acne or large painful nodules, your acne is scarring, it hasn't improved after 6–8 weeks of treatment, or you think it may be caused by a medication or medical condition.

Clearer skin starts here.

Skip the walk-in clinic wait. Our Orleans pharmacists assess and prescribe for mild acne — free with your Ontario health card.

Call 613 · 824 · 3111 Hours & directions

Serving Orleans and east Ottawa — Fallingbrook, Avalon, Chapel Hill, Queenswood Heights, Blackburn Hamlet, Navan & Cumberland. 2746 St-Joseph Blvd, Unit 100, Orleans, ON K1C 1G5.