| In a recent poll, acne topped the list of beauty calamities, annoying respondents more than lines and wrinkles, or even a haircut gone badly.
Acne, although commonly found in teens, can occur at any age. Apart from the face, it can also happen on other parts of the body, such as the neck and back.
How to treat? First, try over-the-counter acne treatments that contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide is the most frequently used acne treatment and is regarded as one of the most efficient ones in the market. If you are suffering from mild forms of acne that is non-inflammatory, benzoyl peroxide is regarded as exceedingly powerful. Since it is secure both for grown-ups and teens, it is preferred to other therapies.
Yet, there are some minor side effects. It can cause dry skin. If your skin is too dry, stop applying the treatment for some time and then, using a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide, try out again.
Salicylic acid works best on non-inflammatory forms of acne and it starts by removing the dead skin, thus keeping the skin pores clean and preventing blocking. But skin irritation is possible. Users have complained of dryness, stinging or burning feeling, and flaking and peeling of the skin.
If there are no visible results in a few weeks, talk to your general practitioner about prescription products, including antibiotics, retinoids and adapalene (Differin).
There are a few antibiotics that are advised by doctors as acne solutions for patients who suffer from moderate or severe cases of ance. Antibiotics stop bacteria from multiplying and spreading in the body. Even though they demonstate results faster, antibiotics are usually not favored by patients, because they bring on side effects, such as upset stomach, discoloration of the skin, giddiness and photosensitivity.
If your skin is severely affected by cysts, your general practitioner may recommend isotretinoin (Accutane) or may send you to a specialist. Because serious side effects are possible, men and women taking Accutane should be carefully monitored by their doctors. If other acne solutions fail, laser or light therapy may be used.
Take the chance to have a clean radiant skin! |