Minimal Treatment

For the lucky few who face minimal acne, it can be covered up with concealer or even simply put up with knowing that it won’t be around for long. In the case of outbreaks, over-the-counter medication or skin care acne products can be purchased with positive results.

Before buying an acne-treatment product be sure to purchase one that is water-based, will help to reduce the production of sebum, the oily substance on skin. You will also want to find a product that helps to reduce the bacterial growth, helps to unclog blocked pores or hair ducts and that helps to shed dead skin cells.

Acne can often affect more than just a person’s skin and so it is important to recall that if you find that it is affecting your emotional health that you should talk to a doctor.

Nonprescribed Treatment

Making sure to keep your skin clean is important. Some believe that cleansing your face with soap and water is the simplest way to help fight acne, while others believe this is important it may not help clear acne that is already present. Be sure not to scrub your face aggressively.

Cleansers with Added Agents

Some cleansers on the market contain active acne-fighting agents that help to prevent, treat, and clear up acne-prone skin. These agents include:

• Benzoyl peroxide

This compound is believed to help eliminate the bacteria on the skin that contributes to the development of acne. But you must be patient for it can take a month to show any signs of improvement and must be used daily and not sporadically.

It does not diminish the production of sebum, the oily substance that the sebaceous glands produce, so if you cease using it, chances are your acne will return.

Benzoyl peroxide can be found in a variety of cleansers, as a cream, foam, gel, or even as a lotion. It has a tendency to dry skin and may bleach your clothing if it gets in the way while washing your face or applying to other parts of your body covered with the acne.

• Salicylic Acid

Sometimes the cells on our bodies have difficulty shedding the dead skin that develops, salicylic acid can help to correct this abnormality. It has even been known to help unclog the pores and hair ducts.

Contrary to benzoyl peroxide it has no effect on the bacteria of the skin, and it too doesn’t have an effect on the production of sebum. In order for it to be effective, continued use is required least the pores become clogged once again. You can purchase products that contain this agent in pads, creams, and lotions.

• Alcohol and Acetone

When the two are combined they work together to fight both the bacteria, thanks to the alcohol, and help to remove oils from the skin, thanks to the acetone that is present.

Be forewarned that by using products that contain these agents your skin may become dry, and overall, they are not recommended by doctors or dermatologists.

• Sulfur

Sulfur is not likely to be used on its own, it is added to other over-the-counter skin care products or medications, such as salicylic acid. It has a strong odor and isn’t as effective as the other agents on the market.