Acne Treatment Options That Work in Kenya – Pharmacy to Prescription

March 1, 2026 • 6 min read

Acne treatment can feel overwhelming — especially in Kenya where heat, humidity, and dark marks make things trickier. The good news? You don’t need expensive imports or complicated routines. Start simple with pharmacy options, and step up to prescription if needed. Here’s what really helps, based on what actually works for many Kenyans.

Start Here: Over-the-Counter Treatments (Pharmacy Shelf)

Most people with mild to moderate acne see real improvement with these — and they’re easy to find at Goodlife, Haltons, MYDAWA, or Jumia.

• Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5–5%): Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation. Great for red, angry pimples. Start with lower strength (2.5–4%) to avoid dryness — apply once daily at night after cleansing. Side effects: mild dryness, redness, peeling (usually settles). It can bleach fabrics and towels, so use white pillowcases. Expect clearer skin in 4–8 weeks. Examples: PanOxyl wash or CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser.
• Salicylic Acid (1–2%): Unclogs pores and reduces blackheads/whiteheads. Perfect for oily skin in humid weather. Use as a cleanser or leave-on gel. Mild tingling is normal; irritation is rare. Results in 4–6 weeks. Try: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% or CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser.
• Adapalene (0.1%): A gentle retinoid that prevents new clogs and fades marks over time. Apply a pea-size amount at night after moisturizer (to reduce irritation). First few weeks may bring purging (temporary worsening). Avoid strong sun — pair with mattifying SPF. Results: 8–12 weeks for best effect. Widely available as Differin gel OTC in many Kenyan pharmacies.

When to Step Up: Prescription Treatments

If OTC isn’t enough after 2–3 months (or you have painful cysts/scarring), see a dermatologist (e.g., Avané Clinic, Este Medical in Nairobi). They may prescribe:

• Topical Combinations: Retinoid + benzoyl peroxide or antibiotic (e.g., Epiduo-style gels) — stronger and faster for moderate acne.
• Oral Antibiotics: Tetracyclines for inflammatory acne — usually 3–6 months. Use with topical treatment and sunscreen (they increase sun sensitivity).
• Hormonal Options (for women): Combined birth control pill if acne flares with periods or PCOS. Takes 6–12 months for full effect. Co-cyprindiol (e.g., Diane-35) for severe cases — reduces oil production.
• Isotretinoin (Roaccutane): For severe, scarring acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments. Very effective but prescribed only by specialists — requires monitoring.

Important Tips for Kenyan Skin & Climate

• Always moisturize — even oily skin needs lightweight hydration to prevent rebound oiliness in humidity.
• Daily matte SPF 30+ is non-negotiable — prevents dark marks from worsening in our strong sun.
• Start slow: Introduce one new product every 2–4 weeks to avoid irritation.
• Be patient: Most treatments take 6–12 weeks to show real change.
• If severe, painful, or scarring — don’t wait. See a derm early to prevent long-term marks.

Not sure which treatment to try first? Message us — we can help you pick safe starting points based on your skin type and budget.

Next read: How to Fade Dark Marks After Acne →