Over-the-Counter Acne Medication
There are many types of over-the-counter acne
medication. When dealing with acne, most people run to the local
pharmacy and buy some sort of over-the-counter acne medication on the
basis of recommendations from their friends or perhaps even television
ads. Yet despite friendly suggestions, it is a good idea to consult with
a physician before using any kind of over-the-counter acne medication.
Even though acne is generally a benign condition, a doctor or
dermatologist can advise you on what the best course of treatment might
be as well as provide further suggestions based on the particular kind
of acne you may be suffering from.
Considering the fact that a large number of acne medications are
available, it can be hard to choose which one to try. You should not
rely strictly upon the advice of friends or family because what may work
for one person may not work for another. Further, you should have some
background knowledge about the active ingredients in various acne
medications, so you can make a better-informed choice.
One of the most popular ingredients in acne medications is benzoyl
peroxide. Found in gels and ointments, it helps by combating the
bacteria that generally help cause acne. It is also useful for removing
dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin. It is these
dead skin cells which combine with sebum to create blackheads and
whiteheads.
Benzoyl peroxide has been proven to be safe and effective in combating
lesions. It can also be used as a means of acne prevention once a
breakout has cleared up by keeping the skin free from acne causing
bacteria. The only side effect associated with this ingredient is dry
skin, and this can be avoided by the use of moisturizer.
Another ingredient commonly found in a majority of acne medications is
salicylic acid. This prevents acne by clearing up dead skin cells
that are accumulating too quickly and clogging the pores. If the
medication you are using contains salicylic acid you should continue to
use it after the skin has cleared up to prevent future outbreaks of
acne. The only side effects associated with salicylic acid are dry,
irritated skin.
Other ingredients of Acne Medication
Besides the more common ones, there are other ingredients you may see in
acne medication such as resorcinol and sulphur. Resorcinol causes the
top layer of skin to peel and the dead skin cells that clog the pores
are similarly affected. It is often combined with sulphur. Although it
is not known how exactly sulphur affects acne conditions, it has
continued to be used effectively even after more than 50 years. (Sulphur
is often combined with other ingredients besides resorcinol like
salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.)
Of all the ingredients that have been listed which are effective in
fighting acne or preventing its outbreak, benzoyl peroxide is probably
the most versatile acne medication. It can be used in cleansing liquids
or bars, as well as lotion, cream, and gels which are applied directly
on the skin. The cleansing products are used once or twice a day, while
the creams and lotions can be used as needed. They should be applied
thoroughly on the skin around the acne as well as the pimples themselves
for overall effectiveness. Also, you should try to avoid getting benzoyl
peroxide in the eyes, mouth or nose, as it will cause irritation or
inflammation.
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