Not All Acne Is The Same
Acne is a skin condition for which there are many treatments. If you’re looking for relief, these 5 ways will help you combat acne both naturally and using tried and tested clinical treatments. Acne usually manifests in young people in puberty and can be caused by anything from high levels of testosterone to genetics.
The two main types are blackheads and whiteheads, but you’ll also find pimples, cysts, and more. Blackheads are oxidized oil plugs on the surface of your skin while whiteheads are filled with pus. Pimples are raised bumps on the skin caused by an infection within the sebaceous gland. Cysts are deeply embedded lesions on which can burst and release pus when large enough.
Acne can also be caused by bacteria that infect the pores, or an allergic reaction to certain foods like dairy or gluten.
Face Masks
Face masks are not just for dry skin! They also help prevent acne, which is an excellent way to get clearer skin. You can put on the perfect face mask every few days and get amazing results. When you put on a face mask, it dries out the skin and kills bacteria. So, when you wash your face off after, pimples have been reduced in size and redness.
Use a face mask at least twice a week. The properties in the mask will help to control excess oil production and kill bacteria that can aggravate acne. Try adding lavender, rosemary, or tea tree essential oils to the mix for an extra boost.
I like to use these on days where I know I am going to be in close contact with other people. I find that this helps me not only avoid breakouts but also maintains a clearer complexion. My favorite face mask is the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Rosewater and Aloe Vera.
Over The Counter Treatments
Over-the-counter acne products are available. These products contain ingredients that can help reduce the number of lesions and heal active ones. Acne medications often use a combination of ingredients to fight the bacteria, reduce inflammation, and heal redness. Over-the-counter products are a great way to combat acne. These products can be found at your local pharmacy, and they can be as simple as a cleanser or as complicated as a blemish treatment cream.
Products like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are available to you at your local drugstore. These can be effective, but mainly, they are affordable. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that kills the bacteria in your pores that causes acne. Salicylic acid works by exfoliating the top layer of skin, which helps to get rid of dead skin cells and other substances that may be blocking the pores.
Before you rush off to your pharmacy and pick up the first thing you see, consider that The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that over-the-counter acne products should never be used to treat acne. These products may work for some people, but many times they just irritate the skin. It is recommended that the only products used to clear acne are prescription medications.
Off The Shelf Products
Off-the-shelf products are usually what I would recommend for people to try first. Unfortunately, not everyone is going to be blessed with perfect skin and that’s why there are several products that you can use to help combat acne.
In the past, people had to visit a department store to get anti-acne products. But now, you can buy these items from the comfort of your own home. There are many off-the-shelf items that do not require a prescription or medical supervision.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are one of the main ways to combat acne. The chemicals in the peel work to clear away the top layer of skin, revealing a healthier layer underneath. This helps to prevent future breakouts by eliminating acne-causing bacteria and oil. Chemical peels use a number of exfoliants including salicylic acid, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or beta hydroxy acid. They can work well as an alternative to more invasive procedures for those who have mild acne problems.
Prescription Skincare Treatments
One way to get rid of acne is a prescription skin care regimen. You can consult a dermatologist or an online prescription treatment provider, and they will prescribe a product to use on your face. This will be the best option if you have severe acne. It may take time, but it is worth it in order to have clear skin again.
The emergence of the internet has made the process of getting a prescription for your acne much easier and more efficient than ever before. Gone are the days when you had to wait to see a dermatologist and go through all sorts of blood, sweat, and tears to get your medication. Not only do they ensure that your unique situation is accounted for, but they also provide their products at affordable prices.
It’s not uncommon to see people turning to online prescription treatment providers for their acne. This is because the process of trying to find a doctor, waiting for an appointment, and then being prescribed medication can be frustrating. Most people are looking for fast, easy ways to combat acne.
Online treatment providers offer a plethora of products that are all backed by clinical trials and efficacy studies. Moreover, they give you the opportunity to find the product that best suits your skin type.
Food For Thought
Remember, there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” acne treatment. You need to find the treatment that works best for your skin type and your needs. Make sure you keep in mind your age and any pre-existing conditions, so you can find the treatment that will work best for you.
I hope this article has been helpful to you – please comment below if you have any other questions or things to add about acne.