Exploring Over The Counter Acne Treatments

Nonprescription medications are all you need for most acne. If you can get into the routine of caring for your skin, over the counter solutions do a good enough job of eliminating your acne quickly.

Let me point out the differences in some of the non prescription solutions.

Resorcinol is another widely used OTC medication and is adequate in many cases, especially when combined with other compounds such as sulfur. It functions by crushing hardened skin, leading to more adequate removal from the follicle and the area outside. That also produces less odds of clogging, a major factor in acne formation.

It should not be combined with astringents such as alcohol.

One of the most popular - and most effective - treatments possible for mild acne, benzyl peroxide is used daily by millions. It works by helping fight the bacteria that is partly responsible for acne in the first place: Propionibacterium acnes. It also helps to get rid of dead skin cells from the area. If those don’t rise up where they can be shed or washed off, they can build up, upping the chances of getting acne.

Benzyl Peroxide has been in use for decades so the good and bad are well known. One possible side effect is excessively dry skin. It can also bleach fabric, and so should be used with care when treating acne while changing outfits.

The risk of side effects can be minimized by using the proper amount. If a 2.5% concentration is working, don’t assume that 10% is better, or will work faster. Higher dosage only increases the odds of side effects without any compensating value.

Commonly sold in the form of pads, salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. It slows down the process of shedding dead skin cells inside the follicle, that will help delay build up. Helps stop bacteria accumulation in the sebum inside the pore, because it removes shedding dead skin cells. Also, it will be harmless and beneficial for you to use salicylic acid, because it is the active ingredient in aspirin.

Now you know a little bit more about getting clear skin and keeping it that way. Make sure that you don’t combine any of these treatments, unless your dermatologist has asked you to. Read the instructions carefully on whatever product you are trying. If you find that after a couple of weeks your acne continues, or even gets worse, return to your dermatologist. They may suggest a stronger treatment, like a prescription medication.