Salicylic Acid Vs. Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne Treatment
Acne is a skin disease that causes pimples to form in areas like the face, neck, back and chest. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne can be controlled, but there is no cure. Many treatments are available for acne, including over-the-counter topical medications containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
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Why Pimples Form
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Pimples form when oil and skin cells block hair follicles under the skin. The bacteria that causes acne inflammation (P. acnes), which is normally only present on the skin's surface, grows in blocked follicles.
Salicylic Acid
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Salicylic acid prevents your pores from clogging by slowing the shedding of cells in hair follicles. This ingredient also helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.
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Benzoyl Peroxide
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The Mayo Clinic suggests that benzoyl peroxide may be the most effective over-the-counter treatment for acne. Benzoyl peroxide kills P. acnes and removes pore-clogging dead skin cells and excess oils.
Other Treatments
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Sulfur, resorcinol, alcohol and acetone are other active ingredients you may find in over-the-counter treatments. These products work by removing excess oil and dead skin cells.
Precautions
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Topical medications like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid may cause skin irritation, redness or burning. Benzoyl peroxide in particular can cause excessive dryness, scaling and minor swelling and may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
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