Acne is a big concern to most teens. One could loose self-confidence, being confused and annoyed. It is hard even to many adults. but it's normal having acne at some point during our life. It is important to understand the root cause of acne and the proper ways to treat it. There are many acne skin products out in the market to treat acne. Each product contains different ingredients. The commonly used ingredients is known as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur and resorcinol, alcohol and acetone. When one is shopping for an acne treatment product, it's wise to look for these above ingredients. It is equally important to follow the directions of the product in order for skin products to be effective.
- Benzoyl Peroxide - Most common acne treatment available, found in cleansers, lotions and creams. It works by killing propionibacteria acne, the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide decrease sebum(oil) production, helps to unclog pores and reduces inflammation of the skin. Benzoyl peroxide is not recommended for long term use, meaning that you need to give your skin a break after using it about four months, but you can use it again after the break. Here are some of the acne treatment products that contain one or more of the ingredients mention here.
- Salicylic Acid - Prevents breakouts by correcting the abnormal shedding of skin cells, helping the skin to shed dead cells more effectively, therefore helps reduce the number of pore blockages.
- Sulfur and Resorcinol - Prevent acne by removing buildup of dead skin cells and reduce excess oil.
- Alcohol and Acetone - Work by reducing acne causing bacteria, removes excess oil from the skin and reduces the amount of pore blockages.
To achieve the best results possible, you must first understand your skin. Non-flammed acne, blackheads and whiteheads (milia) often respond well to salicylic acid products and benzoyln peroxide is good for those who tend to get inflamed pimples.
Part of the battle in treating acne is finding products that work for you. You may need to experiment with several different product treatments before finding one that improves your acne skin. Estheticians from any professional Spa can recommend a good acne-prone skin product for your skin. Having three to four chemical peel treatments from a professional Spa should also help treat and reduce acne substantially. Also finding a good acne cleanser, and acne moisturizer could help clear out acne. If you don't see improvements after several weeks of professional acne facial or chemical peel treatments, you may need to seek help with a dermatologist to receive medical acne treatments. If you suffer moderate to severe acne such as nodulocystic, cystic acne, seeking a professional dermatologist is your best option. Any non medical treatments such as those mentioned above can only treat the skin superficially. Dermatologists should be able to properly prescribe medication for deeper level of skin problems such as acne.
Edited by: JL RN
Co-founder of Pure Apple Skin
