There are lots of over the counter alternatives for treating acne, the majority of which can be effective to some level. It’s tempting to simply run down the corner shop and buy something based on the recommendation of a friend or a successful advertising campaign. You’d be wiser thought to seek advice from a Doctor, because they can advise you on the very best sort of treatment for your individual instance of acne.
Active ingredients in acne medications
There are a really high number of products available to treat acne at the present moment. You could always take the counsel of a friend that has used a specific product but you need to bear in mind that not all folks react to medications the exact same and not all cases of acne are the same. There could be some substantial differences between your acne and your friends. You’ll be better able to pick the appropriate treatment for your situation for those who have a basic understanding of the active ingredients in the many acne medications.
Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the more popular active ingredients found in present acne remedies. It can be seen in gels and lotions and fights acne using a double action. It will help treat the bacteria on the surface of the skin which in fact causes pimples. Secondly it helps to remove the dead skin cells and oils in the surface of the skin. When sebum combines with these dead skin cells it blocks the pores and causes black heads and white heads. Benzoyl peroxide was determined to be secure in directly treating existing lesions. Care should also be taken since it will bleach out clothes and hair.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is another frequent ingredient in acne remedies. It works by removing the dead skin cells which accumulate and block the skin pores. Salicylic acid products will need to be used even if the skin is obvious to keep the acne from re-occurring. The only reported side impact is drying and irritation of the skin in some individuals.
Sulfur and Resorcinol
Both most common ingredients are sulfur and resorcinol. Resorcinol operates by removing the top layer of skin that also effectively removes the dead skin cells before they can clog pores. Sulfur has been used in the treatment of acne for more than fifty years with significant achievement regardless of the fact it is not known how it really helps. Sulfur is often mixed with other remedies to help them be more successful but isn’t normally used on it’s own due to the unpleasant odor.
Conclusion
Benzoyl peroxide is most likely the most versatile of the aforementioned ingredients. It may safely be used in creams, lotions, gels and soaps. These products must be used many times a day directly on the pimples in addition to the skin around them.