Teenagers and adults alike, mostly women, freak out at the sight of acne on their faces. Almost immediately, they search frantically for all kinds of acne treatments and facial cleanser just to get rid of these unsightly problems.
The thing is, to better understand the problems about acne, you need to know first what causes them. As the pores in our skin get clogged with oil called sebum, acne develops. And there are different types of acne. These are the blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and the most serious and painful type called acne cysts. The latter type even leave a permanent scar on our skin after it heals. The reason why teenagers and women, especially before their monthly period, get acne is because of a surge in hormones. As hormones increases more sebum are made. Even women nearing the age of 40s and 50s also get acne due to fluctuations of their hormones as they get older.
Here are the top 12 best acne treatment that are simple to follow, yet are proven to be real effective.
• Harm not - In other words, do not dare to pick, press or rub your acne. Or else, you risk spreading the bacteria which may lead to scarring.
• Use benozyl peroxide - Begin with the lowest concentration and work your way up. (particularly for those with sensitive skin). Take note, the higher the concentration, the more irritating it maybe. Try this once or twice a day. You can use a mild skin moisturizer if your skin dries too much.
• Try “over the counter” products - There are products containing sulfur or resorcinol that help unclog oil glands by irritating them. However, most dermatologist recommend benozyl peroxide as it is most effective.
• “Over the counter” products must be applied for prevention - Some people just spot it on existing acne. It is best that you apply it also on the face, back and chest which are also prone to acne.
• Wash properly - Use mild soap on affected skin. Rub lightly with fingertips and warm water. Use soap with benozyl peroxide for oily skin.
• Do not exfoliate – Remember, your skin is already irritated. Since the skin of your face is sensitive, never use rough sponges, brushes or cleansers with granules. But you can use acne scrub pads with soap on your back and chest since these areas are less sensitive.
• Be wary of oily products – Avoid using oily pomades or gel on your hair, heavy oil-based moisturizers and also oily cleansers. Only use water-based ones for make up.
• Forget the facial - Most people giving facials are not trained to treat acne-prone skin. It may do you more harm than good.
• Never rest your chin on your hands – As much as possible, avoid constantly touching your face. Just like picking pimples, it causes trauma to acne.
• Screen out the sun – Remember, too much exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer and premature aging. Try using a sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
• Careful with your diet - Chocolate, French fries and other oily foods have not yet been proven to have anything to do with teenage acne. But excess eating of these products do pose a threat to your health.
• Watch out for iodine - Some doctors believe that high levels of iodine can cause acne.
If you wish to know more home remedies for acne, you can also link to skin treatments.
