Lion Pair Medicated Acne Care Cream

Lion Pair Medicated Acne Care Cream is Japan’s bestselling OTC acne spot treatment cream from Lion Corporation (Tokyo, founded 1891) — a quasi-drug (医薬部外品) medicated formulation that has been trusted across Asia for decades to treat active, inflamed acne at its biological root. Unlike conventional cosmetic spot treatments, this is a regulated Japanese topical medication with declared active pharmaceutical ingredients, working through a clinically proven dual-mechanism: simultaneous anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action that addresses both causes of inflamed acne at once. The first active, Ibuprofen Piconol (IPPN, 3%) — also known as Ibuprofen Piconate — is the lipophilic ester form of Ibuprofen specifically engineered for topical skin penetration. As an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug), it inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the skin, directly suppressing the inflammatory cascade that causes acne lesions to become swollen, red and painful. Its piconol ester structure dramatically enhances dermal penetration compared to standard Ibuprofen, allowing it to act precisely at the site of the inflamed follicle. The second active, Isopropyl Methylphenol (IPMP, 0.3%) — also known as O-Cymen-5-Ol or IPMP — is a potent broad-spectrum phenolic antibacterial agent that eliminates Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), the primary bacteria responsible for inflamed acne lesions. It disrupts the bacterial cell membrane, providing targeted antimicrobial action without the drying or irritation associated with benzoyl peroxide. Together, IPPN + IPMP deliver a complete treatment of inflamed acne: the bacteria are eliminated by IPMP while the resulting inflammation is simultaneously suppressed by IPPN, calming redness and swelling from two complementary biological pathways. The cream base is carefully formulated with a pH close to the skin’s natural pH for minimal disruption. Carboxyvinyl Polymer (Carbomer) creates the light, gel-cream texture that spreads effortlessly and turns completely transparent when applied thinly over the skin — allowing use as a daytime spot treatment without visible white residue. Stearyl Alcohol provides emollient body and emulsion stability. Polysorbate 60 acts as an emulsifier. Octyldodecanol provides additional emollient slip and texture. Butylene Glycol contributes humectant hydration. Disodium Edetate (EDTA) chelates metal ions to enhance preservative efficacy and formula stability. A light, refreshing botanical fragrance completes the sensory experience. For external use only — targeted spot application only. Made in Japan.