More than 80% of people worldwide contract acne once they reach adolescent age. However, it is not enough to assume that because the best acne treatments available work for some people that it would automatically work for others. The fact is, people react differently to different substances, with some having extremely adverse reactions that could prove more harmful than beneficial.
It is therefore vital to know the composition of anti-acne products in order to avoid aggravating the condition. Otherwise, what would have been just a search for a simple solution to a pimple might result into a full acne outbreak.
Understanding acne
Acne is primarily a bacterial infection brought about by the blockage of the follicles by dead skin cells. The blockage promotes the accumulation of underlying skin oils or sebum and this is where P.acnes or the acne causing bacteria thrives. The pores subsequently break down resulting in the dreaded acne condition.
The best acne treatments aim to clear the skin's pores and fight the acne causing bacteria. In spite of this there are still cases of acne outbreaks that persist or reappear after the application of anti-acne medication. This does not necessarily mean that these solutions were ineffective. Rather, other factors come into play such as increased hormonal activity, poor hygienic practices, hypoallergenic reactions and genetic history.
Anti-acne ingredients
There are various modes used in the delivery of acne treatments, namely, bactericidals, antibiotics and retinoids, each having their own pros and cons.
The active ingredient in most anti-acne topical bactericidals is benzoyl peroxide. In use since the 1920's, the substance is diluted at 2% to 10% in cream or gel and applied directly on the affected area of the skin twice a day. Benzoyl peroxide breaks down into benzoic acid which dissolves the pore blockage and also kills the P. acnes bacteria.
There are a significant number who have initial sensitivity to benzoyl peroxide, exhibiting symptoms such as skin irritation, redness and dryness. In extreme cases, it can even produce itching, peeling and inflammation of the skin. Generally however, the skin becomes tolerant to the substance in a week or two. The anti-acne product Proactiv is known to use benzoyl peroxide.
Salicylic acid is another substance used amongst the acne treatments that are sold over-the-counter. The salicylic acid works as an exfoliant, encouraging the skin to shed cells more rapidly thereby preventing the blockage of the pores. Neutrogena and Clean and Clear are examples of products that have salicylic acid as their active ingredient. Note however that this compound is toxic in large quantities and certain people are hypersensitive to salicylic acid even at minute dosages.
Retinoids are chemical compounds related to vitamin A and are known to affect the cells of the follicle lining. This prevents the build up of dead cells in the pores. Tretinoin (Retin-A) and adapalene (Differin) are examples of retinoids used in the treatment of acne, usually in conjunction with other anti-acne medication. Retinoids require prescription as they are known to cause skin irritation and an initial outbreak of acne. Tretinoin in particular can increase the risk of sunburn.
There are other substances used with the best known acne treatments like azelaic acid, retinol and various antibiotics such as erythromycin, clindamycine and tetracycline, just to name a few. They all work in different ways and each has their varying side-effects. It is best to consult with a physician to get the proper advice on how to deal with an acne condition.
Author Resource:-
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