Acne-Info: Murad Review

Staff Review
Effectiveness*

Few Side Effects*

Price*

FDA Acne Fighters

Botanical Extracts

Fragrance*

Murad Acne Complex® Review:

The Murad Acne Complex is a three piece kit that includes a Cleanser, Acne Treatment Gel and Lotion. The key principal ingredient in this system is Salicylic Acid. Salicylic Acid is effective in only treating non-inflammatory acne lesions by helping to correct the abnormal shedding of skin cells and unclog pores to resolve and prevent lesions. However Salicylic acid does not have any effect on sebum production nor does it kill acne bacteria (P. acnes). Once use is stopped, pores clog and acne returns. (1)

Unfortunately the Murad Acne Complex does not utilize Benzoyl Peroxide in any form. Interestingly, Murad has chosen Triclosan to kill bacteria. (2) The health effects and safety of Triclosan have been heavily debated and much discussion surrounds this substance that is used in common household anti-bacterial products (hand soap, dish detergent, etc). (3,4)

The Company behind it all: Murad, Inc.

Products: Murad also sells a range of skin care products including anti-aging and sun protection.

Pluses: A quality product from a reputable skin care company. Good use of natural additives.

Negatives: Mixed user reviews are probably due to the limited effects of Salicylic Acid alone. (see product comparison)

Summary: Overall a good product for light acne suffers looking to keep there skin clear of only mild forms of acne.

(1) American Academy of Dermatology: http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/treatotc.html
(2) Murad Website: http://www.murad.com/murad/product/10092/product_how_to_use.htm
(3) Wikipedia: Triclosan Health Concerns, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triclosan
(4) http://www.beyondpesticides.org/pesticides/factsheets/Triclosan%20cited.pdf
(*) Based on personal opinion of staff at Acne-Info. Not based on clinical evidence.