How Does Acne Medication Work?
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What is acne?
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Simply put, acne is the result of a clogged pore or hair follicle in the skin. When a pore gets blocked for any number of reasons, the oil, or "sebum," that would be secreted through sweat or other means instead gets trapped underneath the skin, attracting bacteria. Usually, acne starts out as a small whitehead, turning into a blackhead if its contents are exposed to the air and oxidized. However, sometimes acne becomes inflamed when blood gets through the follicular wall. This is how people end up with red bumps and pimples.
Cleansers, creams and pads
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Most acne cleansers, creams and pads contain either benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Benzyl peroxide gets rid of acne in two ways. First, it oxygenates the skin to kill bacteria. Second, it dries up excess oil. Most over-the-counter acne medications contain 2.5 percent or less of this chemical since an excess amount can overly dry the skin and lead to peeling and irritation. Users are advised to limit their sun exposure.
Salicylic acid works by helping to unclog the pores. It exfoliates the skin and goes deep down into the follicle to rid it of dead skin cells and other substances that can trap the sebum. It is best for acne prevention and to clear out blackheads and whiteheads. Most cleansers with salicylic acid contain between .5 percent and two percent. Natural acne treatments may include tea tree oil or witch hazel instead. Both work to dry up oil in the pores.
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Pore strips
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A relatively recent development in acne treatment is the pore strip, popularized by Biore. The strips hold fast to the skin when wet. Then, as they dry, they attach to the oil, skin cells and bacteria that clog the pores. When the user pulls them off, this gunk comes with them. This cleans up blackheads and whiteheads without any scrubbing. However, it does nothing for inflammation.
Pills
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The most popular pill used to treat and prevent acne is Accutane, or Isoterinoin. It works by severely increasing the skin's supply of vitamin A, effectively cutting back the amount of oil the skin secretes and helping to promote cell renewal. A user takes it twice a day for a few months and then stops after seeing results. Once she makes it through the course, the effects should last for life. However, this is not a miracle drug. It's recommended only for those with severe acne that doesn't respond to other treatments. Also, since Accutane puts unborn children at risk of severe birth defects, women who take it are mandated to be on birth control and must take regular pregnancy tests. All users must also abstain from drinking alcohol during treatment.
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