Effective Acne Skin Treatments

Acne skin treatments come in many different forms and preparations. The product best suited to your will depend largely on your skip type, and the type of acne that you're suffering from.

Many people suffer from acne. Acne is a skin condition that affects the hair follicles or pores. The body has tiny hair follicles or pores all over the skin. Each follicle has an associated oil-producing gland. These glands produce oil called sebum, which is necessary for healthy skin and hair. At the same time, the skin beneath and around the follicle is constantly being replaced with new skin. The old dead skin cells are removed from the skin through these follicles or pores.

Excess oil production along with surplus dead skin cells can cause the pores to become blocked or clogged. The oil and skin mixture forms a plug that traps bacteria inside causing a pimple. Other factors can contribute to acne such as heredity and hormones.

When to treat acne
Most acne remedies work best when used over time. Occasional use will not be enough to keep bacteria at bay and acne will often flare up between usages. Think of acne skin treatment more like an ongoing routine than a one-time remedy. You will need to continue to use acne products in order to control acne.

Over-the counter treatments
There are many over-the-counter treatments available to take care of acne. These are topical treatments that are applied to the surface of the skin. These don't need to be expensive to work. The reason products fail is usually because the person did not keep up treatment long enough. Most products need to be used daily for several weeks or more in order to notice any improvement.

Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient in many acne treatments. This often controls mild acne very well. It works by killing the bacteria that is associated with acne. It comes in different strengths such as 2.5%, 5% and 10%. Use 2.5% for the face since facial skin is delicate. Stronger formulas can be used for body acne such as that found on the back, arms and shoulders. This skin is tougher and can respond to stronger medications.

Salicylic acid is an ingredient in many acne products found at the drug store. It works by keeping pores unclogged thus preventing acne from forming. It can also help to reduce the amount of dead skin cells that are shed, helping to lessen the chance of blocked pores. Dry or itchy irritated skin can be a side effect.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are another common ingredient in acne preparations. These use acids found in fruits or sugarcane to remove dead skin cells. AHAs help prevent pores from becoming clogged.

Prescription Treatments
When other methods don't work or your acne is severe you should see a dermatologist. He can prescribe topical and oral medications that are stronger than over-the-counter medications. If you have severe acne the first medication he may give is an antibiotic. This will help to calm the skin by reducing and eliminating the infection.

Retinoids are a topical medication made using vitamin A. These creams work under the skin to speed up the production of skin cells, thus reducing clogging of pores. Your dermatologist may prescribe two acne skin treatments at once to better combat your acne. Always follow directions properly and allow time for the products to work.

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