Side Effects of Acne Cream
For such a common skin condition, acne can be very embarrassing. Sufferers turn to a wide variety of treatments ranging from homemade remedies to strong prescription drugs. The treatments range in effectiveness, as well as side effects. In the most extreme cases, the side effects can outweigh the benefits. Before you begin a course of treatments, it's imperative that you know the possible trade-offs.
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Types
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Conventional acne treatments fall into roughly three categories. The first category kills the bacteria that causes acne. This includes all benzoyl peroxide-based treatments, light therapy, and oral and topical antibiotics. The second category promotes the exfoliation of dead skin cells, thereby preventing blocked pores. Salicylic acid-based treatments fall into this category. The third groups controls the production of sebum, the substance that makes the skin soft and also causes acne. This includes contraceptive pills and the prescription medication Isotretinoin (Accutane).
Benzoyl peroxide
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Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient found in over-the-counter creams and face washes. It's very effective at treating mild non-inflammatory acne. It works by destroying Propionibacterium acnes, the bacterium that is closely linked to acne. The side effects include dry skin, redness, and mild irritation. If you experience any of these symptoms, reduce the frequency with you use the treatment, or switch to a product with a lower concentration of the active ingredient. An oil-free moisturizer also helps.
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Salicylic Acid
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Salicylic acid is another common ingredient in non-prescription acne treatments. It's a keratolytic agent. It works by increasing the rate of the sloughing of dead skin cells. Dead skin cells block pores and create the perfect environment for the proliferation of P. acnes bacteria. Side effects are similar to benzoyl peroxide and include mild dryness and irritation.
Antibiotics
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Antibiotics are come in two forms: pills and topical creams. They are only available by prescription. Side effects include photosensitivity, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach, and skin discoloration. If you experiences any of these symptoms, contact your doctor who can adjust the prescription. Antibiotics can become less effective with prolonged use as bacteria mutates and becomes resistant. They can also kill the good bacteria than live in your guts. Eating yogurt can help restore it.
Isotretinoin
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Isotretinoin is a very strong prescription medication that is sold under the trade name Accutane. It inhibits sebum production by regulating sebaceous gland function. The most serious side effect is birth defects in fetuses. For sexually active women, Accutane is usually prescribed with a contraceptive pill to ensure that the woman doesn't get pregnant while on the medication. Other rare but serious side effects include elevated levels of blood fats and liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage. Less serious side effects include photosensitivity and dryness.
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