Effective Acne Treatment

Effective acne treatment should consist of a dual approach to control micro-bacteria while opening skin pores.  Single acne treatment products do not usually work well. 

Acne treatment products are designed to prevent outbreaks and effective acne treatment is customized for each person.  It is essential to treat the entire acne-involved area with daily maintenance rather than episodically during an outbreak. Remember, it does not help to treat each lesion separately; for optimal results treat the whole face, chest or back area with acne treatment products. 

When cleaning your face, use your hands only.  Do not scrub with a washcloth or use abrasive, granular products. This damages your skin and can actually make the acne worse.  Try not to pop, pinch or over-medicate your face.  This may also make the acne worse and possibly create scarring.

Acne Treatment Products for Effective Acne Treatment

Acne treatment products containing benzyl peroxide are excellent and commonly used in combination to deliver an effective acne treatment regimen. These acne treatment products are used for oily skin, exfoliation and because of their antibacterial properties.  Benzoyl peroxide washes may be used two to three times a day.  Benzoyl peroxide creams may be used in the morning or evening.  Initially it is best to use acne treatment products with a milder-strength of benzoyl peroxide.  Strength can be increased as tolerated.  

Retinoic acids are also excellent acne treatment products as they open skin pores.  Over-the-counter retinoic acid is called retinol. Retinol is a form of Vitamin A and is a very effective acne treatment.  The appropriate benzoyl peroxide or mild acidic wash is used two to three times daily.  Benzoyl peroxide cream or lotion is applied in the morning and retinol in the evening.  An oil-free moisturizer may be used over the benzoyl peroxide or retinol.

If the acne is primarily skin colored bumps or blackheads (comedonal), home glycolic acid peels and blackhead extraction can be done once or twice a week. A facial mask is also an effective acne treatment for clearing pores while toning the skin. 

Although over-the-counter acne treatment products are excellent, some individuals may need prescription medication.  Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics, birth control pills, prescription benzoyl peroxides or retinoic acid.  If the acne is severe, your dermatologist may prescribe an exceptionally effective acne treatment called Accutane.  Accutane is a high-dose Vitamin A oral medication.   Some acne treatment products must be closely monitored by your dermatologist.