Acnon Cream
Acnon Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Acnon Cream by Dpharm - Dong A Pharmaceutical is a viral Korean pharmacy-grade spot treatment formulated to calm red, swollen, and pus-filled inflammatory pimples. Its dual-action formula combines 3% Ibuprofen Piconol (a topical NSAID anti-inflammatory) with 1% Isopropyl Methylphenol (a powerful antibacterial) to shrink active breakouts without the dryness or peeling associated with benzoyl peroxide. Made in South Korea and dispensed exclusively in licensed pharmacies, this 13g tube has become a cult favorite on TikTok for its ability to deflate angry, painful pimples overnight.
Calms Red, Inflamed Pimples
Ibuprofen Piconol (a topical NSAID) blocks prostaglandin synthesis to reduce redness, swelling, and pain in active breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCalms Red, Inflamed Pimples
Ibuprofen Piconol (a topical NSAID) blocks prostaglandin synthesis to reduce redness, swelling, and pain in active breakouts.
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria
Isopropyl Methylphenol (IPMP) penetrates the follicle to neutralize C. acnes bacteria responsible for pus and infection.
Won't Dry Out Skin
Unlike benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, the moisturizing cream base prevents flakiness, peeling, and tightness.
Korean Pharmacy Best-Seller
One of the top-selling OTC acne treatments in South Korean pharmacies, viral on TikTok with millions of views.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains topical Ibuprofen (NSAID). Avoid in 3rd trimester. Consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Contains PEG-40 Stearate, Glycol Stearate, Isopropyl Myristate, and Petrolatum — feeds Malassezia yeast.
Isopropyl Myristate is rated 5/5 comedogenic. Use as spot treatment only — not all over face.
No added fragrance, drying alcohols, or essential oils — gentle on sensitive, reactive skin.
Compatible with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and centella. Apply before other actives.
Avoid if you have a known allergy to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSIbuprofen Piconol (IPPN) 3%Proven
A topical NSAID derivative of ibuprofen, specifically designed for skin penetration. Suppresses the COX enzyme pathway that triggers inflammation in pimples, calming redness, swelling, and tenderness from the inside out.
- Mechanism: Inhibits prostaglandin production at the inflammation site, reducing visible swelling within hours.
- Korean MFDS Approval: Listed as the active ingredient at 30 mg/g in this OTC drug-classified product.
- Comparison: Same active and concentration as Japan's Lion PAIR Acne Cream W — a globally recognized formula.
Isopropyl Methylphenol (IPMP) 1%Proven
A potent antibacterial and antifungal phenol compound (also called o-Cymen-5-ol) that destroys the cell walls of Cutibacterium acnes — the primary bacteria responsible for pus-filled, inflamed acne lesions.
- Mechanism: Disrupts microbial cell membranes, inhibiting growth of acne-causing and odor-causing bacteria.
- Concentration: 10 mg/g, the standard pharmacy-grade dose used in Korean and Japanese OTC acne creams.
- Bonus: Less likely than benzoyl peroxide to bleach fabric or cause oxidative stress on skin.
Dimethicone ~3-5%Proven
A silicone-based occlusive that forms a breathable, protective film over the pimple. Locks in actives, prevents bacteria from re-entering, and shields the lesion from friction and irritation.
- Function: Improves spreadability and acts as a delivery vehicle for the active drug ingredients.
- Safety: Non-comedogenic on its own, hypoallergenic, and rated safe by the CIR Expert Panel.
White Petrolatum & Butylene Glycol ~5-10%Proven
The moisturizing base — Petrolatum is the gold-standard occlusive that reduces transepidermal water loss by up to 99%, while Butylene Glycol attracts water to keep the pimple hydrated for faster healing.
- Function: Prevents the cream from drying out the lesion, which is a common pitfall of Western spot treatments.
- Caveat: Both ingredients can feed Malassezia yeast — not suitable for users with fungal acne.
Methyl & Propyl Paraben ~0.2%Proven
Low-concentration preservatives that prevent bacterial and fungal contamination of the cream itself — critical for an OTC drug product applied to broken skin.
- Safety: Approved by FDA, EU SCCS, and Korean MFDS at concentrations up to 0.4% (single) and 0.8% (mixed).
- Note: Despite internet rumors, the EU SCCS confirms parabens at these levels are non-irritating and not endocrine disrupting.
14 ingredients
Ibuprofen Piconol, O-Cymen-5-Ol (Isopropyl Methylphenol), Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate (Methylparaben), Propylparaben, Glycol Stearate, Dimethicone, Isopropyl Myristate, Petrolatum, Butylene Glycol, BHT, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxystearate, Water, PEG-40 Stearate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply ONLY on the pimple itself, not all over the face. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer on top.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply on clean, completely dry skin.
Dot a Small Amount on the Pimple
Use a clean fingertip or cotton swab. A rice-grain amount is enough — apply only to the affected lesion.
Leave a Thin Layer Sitting on Top
Don't rub it in fully. Let the cream form a small white "patch" over the pimple for slow absorption.
Apply Twice Daily
Use morning and night. Pair with a hydrating moisturizer over the rest of the face. Avoid the eye area.
Do NOT Pop the Pimple First
Popping pushes bacteria deeper. Apply directly on the unbroken bump for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get red, painful, swollen inflammatory pimples
- You experience hormonal cystic breakouts on chin/jaw
- Benzoyl peroxide is too drying or irritating for your skin
- You want a fast-acting overnight pimple solution
- You have stress-induced or adult acne flare-ups
- You travel frequently and need a compact emergency tube
Consider alternatives if:
- You have blackheads or whiteheads (use BHA instead)
- You have known fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You're allergic to NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
- You want all-over acne treatment (this is spot only)
- Your acne is mostly comedonal/non-inflamed
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESExcellent for inflamed pimples, but limit to spot use only — Isopropyl Myristate may clog pores if used widely.
Moisturizing cream base won't strip or flake — a major advantage over benzoyl peroxide treatments.
Ideal balance — calms inflamed zones (T-zone, chin) without dehydrating drier areas.
Fragrance-free and gentler than BPO, but patch test first if you have NSAID sensitivity.
Top-tier choice for red, swollen, painful pimples — the dual anti-inflammatory + antibacterial action targets exactly this.
Avoid — multiple ingredients (PEG-40 Stearate, Petrolatum, Glycol Stearate) feed Malassezia yeast.
Results timeline
WEEK 2-4Visible Reduction in Redness
The Ibuprofen Piconol begins suppressing inflammation. Pimples appear less angry, swelling reduces, and tenderness decreases noticeably.
68% noticedPus & Bacterial Activity Decreases
Isopropyl Methylphenol works to neutralize C. acnes bacteria. Whiteheads come to a head faster or shrink without erupting.
74% noticedPimple Fully Deflates
Most users report pimples fully flatten by day 3-5 of consistent twice-daily application. Post-inflammatory marks may remain.
81% noticedFewer New Breakouts in Treated Areas
Continued use reduces recurrence in problem areas. However, this product does not address comedonal acne or scarring — pair with BHA or retinoid for full clearance.
56% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible reduction in redness within hours of first use
- Won't dry, flake, or peel skin like BPO/SA
- Pharmacy-grade actives (real OTC drug, not just cosmetic)
- Compact 13g tube — great for travel and emergencies
- Fragrance-free and tolerated by sensitive skin
- Works overnight on cystic and pustular pimples
- Affordable at Korean pharmacies (~$8-12 USD locally)
Criticized
- Not effective for blackheads or whiteheads
- Contains comedogenic Isopropyl Myristate
- Not fungal-acne safe (multiple risky ingredients)
- Slow absorption leaves a white cast
- Marked-up significantly outside Korea ($20-30 USD)
- Contains parabens (deal-breaker for some)
- Topical NSAID — not pregnancy-safe in 3rd trimester
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Virtually identical formula — same 3% Ibuprofen Piconol + 0.3% Isopropyl Methylphenol actives. Comes in larger 14g and 24g tubes for better value. Has a light plant fragrance unlike Acnon.
Contains Isopropyl Methylphenol (same antibacterial) plus tocopherol acetate (vitamin E) for healing, but uses different anti-inflammatory (glycyrrhetinic acid instead of NSAID).
Marketed by Korean pharmacists as a near-identical alternative. Same active ingredient class with a slightly larger tube — often recommended as a substitute when Acnon is out of stock.
Different mechanism (niacinamide + LHA + zinc PCA) targets all acne types including comedonal. Better for daily all-over use, but slower on red, inflamed cystic pimples.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAcnon Cream
Aclean Gel (Dong-A Pharm)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the printed expiry date on the tube crimp.
Store at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F), away from direct sunlight, heat, and bathroom humidity.
Aluminum-laminate squeeze tube with screw cap — protects actives from light and air oxidation.
Yes — at 13g, well under TSA's 100ml limit. Compact enough for carry-on or pocket.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. Acnon contains 3% Ibuprofen Piconol — a topical NSAID derivative of ibuprofen. While topical NSAID absorption into the bloodstream is far lower than oral, NSAIDs are generally not recommended in the third trimester of pregnancy due to risks of premature ductus arteriosus closure. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or pediatrician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Safer alternatives during pregnancy include azelaic acid, niacinamide, and centella-based products.
No. Acnon Cream contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne — including PEG-40 Stearate, Glycol Stearate, Petrolatum, and Isopropyl Myristate (a fatty ester). If you suspect fungal acne (small uniform itchy bumps usually on the forehead, chest, or back), avoid this product and look for fungal-acne-safe options like azelaic acid, sulfur, or ketoconazole-based treatments.
Yes, with proper layering. Apply Acnon as a localized spot treatment after your serums (vitamin C, niacinamide) and before your moisturizer. Avoid layering directly with strong actives like retinol or high-percentage AHA/BHA on the same exact pimple — use them on different areas or alternate evenings to prevent over-irritation. Salicylic acid (BHA) and Acnon actually complement each other well: BHA unclogs the pore while Acnon calms the inflammation.
Acnon Cream is best for dry, combination, and sensitive skin types that struggle with red, painful, inflammatory pimples and find benzoyl peroxide too irritating. It's also excellent for adult and hormonal acne sufferers. Oily skin types can use it as a spot treatment but should not apply it all over the face due to comedogenic ingredients. Avoid if you have pure fungal acne.
Most users see visible reduction in redness and swelling within 4-8 hours of the first application, with significant deflation of inflammatory pimples by 24-48 hours. Cystic and deeper lesions typically resolve within 3-5 days of consistent twice-daily use. For full clearance and prevention of new breakouts, use for 2-4 weeks alongside a complete skincare routine.
Apply Acnon Cream after cleansing, toning, and any water-based essences or serums — but before your moisturizer and sunscreen. Dot it directly onto the active pimple, leave a thin layer sitting on top, then layer moisturizer over the surrounding skin (gently around the spot). At night, apply as your second-to-last step before any occlusive cream or sleeping mask.
Acnon Cream rates approximately 3/5 on the comedogenic scale due to Isopropyl Myristate (rated 5/5) and Petrolatum/Glycol Stearate. This is why the product is intended strictly as a spot treatment — never apply it as an all-over face cream. Used correctly on individual pimples, the comedogenic risk is minimal because the cream sits only on the lesion, not on healthy pores.
Acnon Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. The unopened tube is generally good for 2-3 years from the manufacturing date — check the expiry date stamped on the tube crimp. Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if you notice changes in color, smell, or texture.
Verdict: Acnon Cream is one of the most effective targeted spot treatments available for red, inflamed, cystic pimples — and a worthy cult favorite of Korean pharmacy skincare. Its dual-action 3% Ibuprofen Piconol + 1% Isopropyl Methylphenol formula calms swelling and kills bacteria without the dryness, flaking, or stinging of benzoyl peroxide. Reviewers consistently praise overnight reduction in redness and pimple size. Drawbacks include the small 13g tube size, comedogenic carrier ingredients (use as spot treatment only), no fungal-acne safety, and pregnancy caution. Best paired with a salicylic acid product for blackhead/whitehead control.If your battle is against angry, painful inflammatory acne — this is a top-tier choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Ibuprofen
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
O-Cymen-5-Ol
Antimicrobial, Preservative
|
|
|
| 0 |
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate
|
|
|
| 7 |
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycol Stearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Opacifying
|
|