Acne is a common skin problem, especially in the U.S where it affects an average of 50 million people every year. This condition usually has its onset in puberty and progresses to young adulthood where its effects are felt the most. However, acne can occur at any stage in one’s life.
While it is possible to cover a rash on your hands by wearing long-sleeved clothing, it is difficult to hide breakouts and blemishes on your face. It is important to mention that the medical treatments dealt with in this article will work better when combined with good nutrition to achieve a clear youthful look.
The essence of this article is to highlight 5 proven skin care treatments that will deal with that problem for good.
1. Benzoyl Peroxide
This is a common topical medication for the treatment of acne. It is usually the first product many try when seeking a cure for acne because it is relatively easy on the skin and can be bought over-the-counter. People have been using Benzoyl Peroxide for decades and it continues to be the most effective treatment for acne
How Benzoyl Peroxide Works
This medication acts as a disinfectant to reduce the number of bacteria that causes acne. This is achieved by introducing oxygen in the pore which makes the environment hostile for these bacteria. P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for these breakouts, cannot survive in oxygen-rich conditions.
This medication also acts as an exfoliator allowing the removal of dead skin. It is also a good anti-inflammatory which helps to reduce the soreness and redness associated with acne. It has been proved to be the best skin care treatment for pores due to the features discussed.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Benzoyl peroxide are dryness, flaking, redness and burning. Be sure to follow all the directions given by your dermatologists or read the prescription leaflet thorough to reduce the chances of these undesirable effects. If the side effects persist and become extreme consult your dermatologist for further guidance.
2. Chemical Peels to Remove Dead skin
This treatment involves applying a chemical solution on the skin to make it blister and eventually peel off. This procedure is safe for face, neck, or even hands. Apart from skin care treatment for acne, this method is also effective on:
Reducing the appearance of fine lines under the eyes and mouth
Treatment of wrinkles caused by aging or due to the effects of the sun
Disguise minor scars
Reduce dark patches, age spots, and appearance of melasma in pregnant women.
It is important for dermatologists to perform a thorough skin examination on the patient before performing this procedure to reduce the risks of any complications. Moreover, pregnant women should avoid this process. In general, a professional dermatologist will prepare you for any risks you might encounter in the process.
How Chemical Peels Work
Chemical peels work to exfoliate the skin helping it to shed off the dead skin more effectively. With dead skin and excess oils out of the way, pore blockage is reduced and so are the instances of acne-causing bacteria.
Glycolic acid is the commonly used peeling agent but Beta hydroxyl acids are also gaining popularity due to their increased effectiveness.
3. Microdermabrasion
This is mostly used to improve the appearance of acne scars from a previous break out. The process involves the removal of the outer layer of the skin, also known as epidermis which reveals the smooth skin underneath.
This procedure is more useful for depressed acne scars, which lie flat alongside the epidermis. It is also effective in the treatment of active mild to moderate breakouts. It works by removing excess oils and dead skin that leads to the clogging of pores.
Possible Side Effects
Part of the reason why this procedure is so popular it’s because no negative side effects are associated with it. However, if you are dealing with a severe form of acne, this treatment may not be your option because it can serve to exacerbate the situation. Your dermatologist will be able to discuss the other viable options.
Another appealing feature of microdermabrasion is the quick recovery time which means that you can resume your normal duties immediately after the procedure.
4. High-Frequency System Skin Care Treatments
This is an excellent way of achieving professional skin care used in most high-end salons and spas. The high frequency machine benefits range from acne treatment, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, treating cellulite, tightening the skin and making skin pores look smaller among many other exciting benefits. This device treats damaged the skin by causing circulation rush while also delicately warming the soft tissues for smooth, toned skin.
The advantages of a high-frequency facial are remarkable. It provides a safe and mild alternative to more skin invasive procedures such as Botox injections, laser treatments or chemical peels.
5. Salicylic Acid
As you might have discovered, acne forms when there is a buildup of dead skin and oils in the pores. Most of the treatments have been designed to unclog these poles and Salicylic Acid is no exception.
Salicylic is an active ingredient in most of the topical acne treatment creams and lotions. It may take several weeks to see results, so just be patient.
Also, dermatologists’ advice you apply this product less frequently at first and increase gradually. Used correctly, products containing Salicylic Acid are able to treat acne and prevent re-occurrence.
Choose the Best Skin Care Treatments for Your Skin
Acne affects a person’s personal and social life very significantly. It can dent your self-esteem and productivity and that is why it has to be treated effectively.
Most skin care treatments for acne work to exfoliate dead skin, reducing the production of oils and treat inflammation. Every skin is unique and responds to medications differently, so it is up to the user to find out what skin care products are available to suit their skin.
Good skin care is vital for any person who wants to improve their quality of life. Using the tips above you will be able to achieve flawless skin.