Better Health Centre |+| Acne Treatments

Over the Counter Acne Treatment

Author: Allan Johns

Since there are so many people that experience acne, there have been a wide variety of over-the-counter acne medications created.  This is great for those who fall victim to acne because it gives them a number of choices. 

The problem with having so many types of acne medication over-the-counter is that it can be difficult to known what is best for your skin.  Since everyone’s skin will react a little differently to the medications, it is important that you consult with your doctor before making a selection. 

Your doctor will be able to help you recognize the type of skin that you have and may thereby have so helpful recommendations.

If you are unable to meet with your doctor to discuss what acne treatment system he/she recommends that most, you will want to be knowledgeable about the main ingredients found in acne medication treatments. 

That way you are able to choose the best treatment for your skin and won’t have to be as concerned about the possibility of damaging your skin or creating scarring.

Common Acne Treatment Ingredients to look out for.

The first ingredient that you will want to learn about is benzoyl peroxide.  The gels and ointments made for treating acne will typically contain this ingredient.  Its main purpose is to fight off acne producing bacteria in the skin. 

The nice thing about this ingredient is that it is also known for removing the dead skin cells, which will help prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming under the skin. 

Other information you will want to be aware of about benzoyl peroxide is that it is safe for working against lesions and can also be used as a way to prevent acne from forming. 

If you suffer from eczema or very dry skin, I would recommend being very careful with this product because it is known for drying out the skin. 

So if you have sensitive skin, you may not want to use products with this ingredient too frequently.  Another thing to be aware of is that this ingredient has bleaching capabilities.  So take care when applying it.

Salicylic acid is another primary ingredient used in acne medication.  The goal of this ingredient is to get rid of the dead skin cells that are blocking the pores in your skin. 

This type of acne treatment should be used when you have acne and after the acne has cleared up.  As with the benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid has the potential to dry out your skin.  So take caution if you have sensitive skin.

There are a number of other ingredients that you will want to familiarize yourself with before using any kind of acne cure.  For example, resorcinol will make the top layer of your skin peel to get rid of dry skin and sulphur is commonly used with it.

Typically when looking at different types of acne medication treatments, it doesn’t necessarily matter whether it is in the form of a soap, lotion, cream, gel or ointment – just focus more on the ingredients.

But always remember….if after a few weeks your acne is not showing signs of improvement with the over the counter treatment then you may need to think about prescription acne medication.