Different Kinds of Acne Products

Battling acne can be incredibly frustrating. Not washing enough causes acne, washing too often causes acne, acne causes stress, stress causes acne. With hundreds of available acne products on the market, the process is certainly not made easier. Knowing the kinds of acne products and the results they boast is an important start to attaining clear skin.

Cleansers

Acne cleansers are the first defense against acne breakouts. Acne cleansers often have an antibacterial property that kills off all acne-causing bacteria. They also work to clear all oil, dirt and grime from the skin that may clog pores. Some cleansers even contain an abrasive property that assists in sloughing off dead skin cells, which may also clog pores. Acne cleansers should be used at least once a day to prevent all types of acne.

Astringents

Astringents offer protection from blackheads. An astringent is an alcohol-based liquid that is often fortified with salicylic acid. The combination of alcohol and salicylic acid offers deep cleaning found in few other products. The largest downside of astringents, however, is the potential for excessive drying.

Cleansing Pads

Cleansing pads provide a cleanser and astringent in one. The pads pick up all the dirt and oil left on the skin, as the alcohol offers the same targeted, deep-cleaning powers of an astringent. These acne cleansing pads are perfect for all kinds of acne but are not a cleanser replacement.

Makeup

While most makeup tends to clog pores, which causes more blackheads and breakouts, some makeup contains acne combating ingredients such as salicylic acid. Salicylic acid promotes new skin generation, which aids in reducing redness and scars while clearing away dead skin cells to prevent clogging. Concealer, foundation and face powders are all readily available in a clear skin formula.

Spot Treatments

Spot treatment gels and creams allow for a quick fix to impending zits. Placing a small dab of gel or cream on the spot of a building blemish will often prevent the zit from forming, reduce the redness and speed up the healing process. Spot treatments work best on whiteheads.

Acne Treatment Wands

A new product on the market treats forming acne with heat. These pricey wands work based on the fact that bacteria begins to die at temperatures higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The wand is switched on and applied directly to a forming pimple. The wand then kills the bacteria, and the zit disappears within a day. The wand is applied several times daily until the blemish is gone. This method works well for cystic acne and whiteheads before the heads are formed.

Prescriptions

When all else fails, prescription drugs are an option. A doctor can target the precise cause of acne and treat it accordingly. Some of these treatments include Accutane, birth control pills, Differin and Retin-A. Some of these medications are topical spot treatments, while others are taken orally.

Resources

• More Acne Information