Acne Treatments

Many different treatments may be used to defend against breakouts when acne strikes. Though several can be obtained "over the counter" (without a prescription), prescription medications are often more powerful and may yield a better effect. After prolonged use, if no effect is observed, you may benefit from obtaining a prescription from your health care provider. As with any medication regimen, consult a physician or health care provider before beginning any treatment, over the counter or prescription.

Common Ingredients in Acne Treatments

Acne medications contain two types of ingredients: active and inactive. Active ingredients are the drug components that have an anti-acne effect. Inactive ingredients can include anything from colors and fragrances to water and oils. Though each OTC medication is formulated differently, the following active ingredients are most common and can be found in several of the available lotions, scrubs and cleansers.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide goes deep into the pores of the skin and kills the acne causing bacteria. This treatment is the most commonly used, the most affordable and has been clinically tested and proven effective.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid helps to break down blackheads and whiteheads (clogged pores) by exfoliating the outer layers of skin. This helps clear off any dead skin or bacteria that would potentially clog pores and cause breakouts. Like Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid has been clinically tested and proven to be effective in fighting breakouts.

Triclosan

Triclosan is an antibacterial agent found in many cleansers. It kills the tiny microbes (germs) that can cause acne. The addition of triclosan to acne cleansers makes it more effective and longer lasting than washing with mere soap and water.

Popular name brands

The market for acne treatments is constantly expanding. Some popular brands include ClearasilR, Clean & ClearR, OxyR, NeutrogenaR, and ProActivR. Because new brands and products are always appearing, make sure you check the label to ensure it contains effective ingredients.

Everyone's Skin is Different

Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates what drugs are marketed to the public and whether the drugs are safe for use, every person's skin is different and may react differently to every product. If you suffer from skin dryness, itchiness, flakiness or irritation, consider switching to a medication with a lower concentration of active ingredient. Different inactive ingredients can also affect a medication's effectiveness. When consulting a medication label, be sure it is "noncomedogenic" which means it has been tested and proven to not clog pores.

Common Side Effects of Acne Treatments

When starting any skin care regimen, dryness, flakiness, redness and/or irritation is a potential problem. If you experience any of these side effects, reduce usage to once a day or to every other day. As the side effects subside, gradually build up to the recommended dose. If the side effects persist or get worse, discontinue use and contact a doctor.