Sorting through the treatments designed to cure acne can be challenging simply because of the number of options available. Acne triggers can be hormones, stress, cosmetics, and medications to state just a few. The result is in all cases is that the hair follicle becomes blocked by dead skin, oil builds up in the pore, and the surrounding tissue become inflamed. Depending on the severity of the acne condition, treatments can be done in the comfort of home, or have treatments performed at a local day spa, skin care center, or dermatologist office.
At Home Acne Treatment
Over the counter products containing acne fighting ingredients can be purchased at a local drug store. Products that contain derivatives of vitamin a (retinols) peel the upper layer of skin combating one of the main causes of acne, blocked oil glands.
Some of the most common over-the-counter acne treatments contain benzoyl peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and can be found in acne cleansers, lotions, medicated pads, and spot treatments.
Vitamin C is another ingredient that is effective in the treatment of acne. Vitamin also C fortifies the body’s immune system and fights infections. Acne is a disorder caused by bacterial infection, so by including vitamin C in diet and skin care products can help cure it. Because it also promotes collagen synthesis, it is smoothes the appearance of acne scars.
Spa Treatment for Acne Skin
Microdermabrasion removes blackheads from the skin using abrasion and suction. A study of microdermabrasion for acne skin conducted by Northeastern Ohio University and The College of Medicine in Ohio concluded that microdermabrasion could be effectively used to fight mild cases of acne.
Chemical peel treatment for acne skin uses an alpha or beta hydroxy acid such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid to remove the top layer sluggish skin and dissolve oil in clogged pores. Chemical peels can also be combined with microdermabrasion for an aggressive acne treatment.
Medical Skin Treatment for Acne
Prescription medications may be used to clear acne when over the counter medications don’t produce the desire results. Since bacteria causes acne, many doctors treat it by prescribing antibiotics. Tetracycline and Erythromycin are two of the medications that kill bacteria, and heal inflammation caused by acne. Accutane, which treats acne skin by suppressing oil production and reducing inflammation, is another acne drug that is used to treat severe acne. Because of its serious side effects it is only used as a last resort to treat acne.
Laser treatments are quite effective in the treatment of acne. When laser light travels down into the skin it produces oxygen, killing acne bacteria. The treatment also encourages the growth of collagen, which smoothes any existing acne scars.
A trained skin care therapist or dermatologist can help determine the cause of acne. Whether acne breakouts are mild or cystic, there is an appropriate treatment.
Nicole Jelks - Nicole Jelks is a freelance writer and designer with over 15 years experience as a consultant in the spa and wellness industry. She spends ...
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