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Acne Treatments
Topical Treatments:
You've seen them
everywhere. Topical treatments typically take the form of creams,
cleansers, toners, and medicated pads. Most are designed to clean
out your pores and prevent the build-up of dirt and bacteria that
can cause acne. Some use chemicals that penetrate the skin's surface
to kill the bacteria that forms acne pustules. The most common, and
generally most effective, are Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid.
Benzoyl Peroxide
is one of the most popular ingredients in over-the-counter acne
products. It is the main active ingredient in popular treatment
systems such as Proactiv and Clearasil. BP works by destroying the
acne-causing bacteria that can build up in your pores, reducing your
number of clogged pores and thus your acne. It is mostly effective
for mild acne, and usually yields noticeable results within 2-3
weeks.
BP products come
in a variety of strengths (denoted by the BP percentage, usually
2-10%). Depending on your skin type, you may need either a higher or
lower percentage to get the best results. The problem is that while
higher-percentage BP products are often more effective at combating
current acne, they are also more likely to leave you with dry,
damaged skin. It's best to start with a low-percentage solution and
judge your results from there. Unfortunately, your skin can also
adapt to BP, so that after a time you may need a higher percentage
in order to get the same results. The drying effects of BP can be
dangerous if you spend a lot of time in the sun (and have been
connected with skin cancer), so make sure to pack a moisturizer if
you use these products.
While BP is
probably the most effective topical treatment for existing acne at
this time, it does not increase you skin's natural resistance to
bacteria, or make any impact upon the actual regulation of your oil
glands. Thus, BP cannot prevent acne from forming in the future.
BP Verdict:
Great for clearing current acne, but the effects may not last. Watch
out for dryness and irritation.
Another common
topical treatment for acne is the use of Salicylic Acne or
Glycolic Acid. These mild acids work by causing the very top
layer of skin to peel away, unclogging pores and removing dead skin
cells. Acid treatment is mainly effective against mild cases of
acne, and can be effective in eliminating existing acne that is near
the surface of your skin.
Typically your
skin sheds in an uneven fashion, leaving some areas with a build-up
of dead skin cells that can result in clogged pores and acne.
Salicylic and Glycolic Acid help fix this by causing an even
shedding of skin over the applied area. However, acid treatment does
not kill the underlying bacteria or effect skin oil production, and
thus will not stop future acne from forming. Also, dry skin and
irritation are possible side effects, especially when combined with
other drying agents, such as aftershaves containing alcohol or other
acne treatments using Benzoyl Peroxide. Avoid combining treatments
and use caution if you're out in the sun.
Acid
Verdict: Does not attack acne bacteria directly, but may be
an effective alternative for those who's skin is resistant to BP.
Watch out for dryness and irritation.
....Continue to Natural Treatments and
Prescriptions
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