There are many acne products on the market and it can be very confusing as to which one will work best. By understanding what each of the different ingredients that are commonly found in acne medication, you will have a better understanding of what acne product is right for you and your skin.
Salicylic Acid
Dead skin cells can get caught in pores causing clogging. This acne product slows down dead cells from sloughing off of your skin. In addition, salicylic acid can help destroy whiteheads and blackheads. Use this product sparingly as it can irritate skin. It is best to start with a lower dose of salicylic acid at around .5% and if this does not work gradually increase up to 2%.
Benzoyl Peroxide
This acne product is the most popular over the counter treatment on the market. It kills bacteria that can cause acne. In addition, is cleans away oil and dead skin preventing pores from getting clogged. Be careful with its use as it can dry out your skin and produce redness, scaling and some swelling. In addition, benzoyl peroxide can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. It is best to start with a lower dose of 2.5% and gradually increase as long as your skin shows no negative reaction to this product.
Acetone and Alcohol
These two acne products can be found in liquid astringents or other face washes. They remove oil, dirt and make up from skin quite effectively. However, they can dry out skin and may cause burning when applied.
Sulfur and Resorcinol
These two products are usually found together in an acne product. They remove the dead skin and oil that can clog pores and cause pimples. In addition, they help breakup existing acne such as blackhead and whiteheads. Excessive use of sulfur and resorcinol can cause your skin to peel and produce redness.
Retinoids
Retinoids come from Vitamin A. They actually help the skin produce new and healthy cells. This prevents the pores from getting clogged. Overuse of this acne product can cause extreme peeling of the skin, redness, and burns. Be sure to use this product only as directed.
Antibiotics
Available only by prescription, this oral medication works on the bacteria in your skin that causes acne. There are some negative side effects from this medication so consult your dermatologist carefully before opting for this treatment.
Other Treatments
Newer therapies that are emerging include light and laser therapy. These therapies are believed to either reduce the oil produced from sebaceous glands or kill bacteria that can cause acne. Other new acne products include chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Both these treatments are thought to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. It is best to speak with a dermatologist before trying any of these therapies.
When choosing any acne product, always start out with the lowest dose. Read the label carefully and follow the directions exactly as stated. Using the product beyond its maximum recommended daily dose could cause severe burning, redness, or peeling of your skin. And, only using the product occasionally may prevent it working at all.
