Most acne is mild enough that you can self-treat it with over the counter products. Between non-prescription medications and good skin care, you should see your skin clear up effectively in a short period of time.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Used daily by millions, benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common and effective treatments. It combats Propionibacterium- the bacteria partly responsible for acne. Benzoyl also helps remove the dead skin cells that cannot effectively move to the surface.
Since it has been used for so many years, the pros and cons of benzoyl peroxide are well known. Not only can it dry out your skin, it can also bleach fabric, so be careful when using it. You don’t want to have acne treatment stains on your clothes.
Stick to the recommended dosage. If it says to only use 2.5%, only use that amount! You’d be wrong to think that using 10% will give you quicker and better results. In fact, doing so will only increase the odds of side effects.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is the main active ingredient in aspirin. This simple compound is often referred to as a miracle drug. Not only is it safe, it has many effective uses when used properly.
It not only helps the breakdown of blackheads and whiteheads, it also slows down the shedding dead skin cells in the follicle while removing them altogether. All this helps prevent bacteria from building up in sebum. You can even buy Salicylic Acid in handy soaked pads.
Unless otherwise recommended by your dermatologist, it should not be used with any other treatment.
Resorcinol
Another OTC acne medication known to be effective is Resorcinol. It works especially well when combined with sulfur and other compounds. By breaking down hardened skin, it leads to the effective removal from the follicle. It’s also known to lower the odds of clogs, which is a major factor in the cause of acne.
Resorcinol shouldn’t be used with astringents such as alcohol.
Alcohol and Acetone
Alcohol and Acetone are both safe to try, yet aren’t known to be as effective as the other forms of treatment. Both of these remove oil from the skins surface. Though one must remember, the excess oil that causes acne lies underneath the surface of the skin which then clogs pores. The removal of surface oil will only have a very limited effect. Other than an overall skin care regimen, choosing either of these for a full acne treatment is money lost.
Always use over the counter acne treatments as directed. If your acne happens to not go away or even gets worse, go to the dermatologist. Your dermatologist will be able to help you find the right treatment, possibly even a prescribed acne medication.
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