The Facts about Acne and Acne Treatments
The Facts about Acne and Acne Treatments
Nearly everyone will have the occasional acne breakout during their teen years. And while acne is a common problem among this age bracket, it is far from an attractive or desirable one. Some folks have to deal with whiteheads and blackheads well past the years of adolescence. Some will even greet their mid-life crisis with acne trouble as well as the newly discovered lines and wrinkles that are the natural result of the aging process. What is one to do about this life challenge known as acne? The good news is that there are plenty of options in acne treatments today - so many, in fact, that you stand a high probability of finding one that will clear up your own complexion. But before you dash out to purchase an acne treatment to try, there are a few facts that you should know.
What is Acne and Why does it Occur?
Acne is the result of pores becoming clogged and whiteheads or blackheads developing on the skin. It begins most often with kids that are ten to thirteen years old, and usually lasts for around five years. Unfortunately, many can attest to the fact that this is a generalization, and that acne breakouts can occur for a much longer stretch of time. Most people can control their breakouts with over the counter acne treatments. However, there is also a large percentage that will require a doctor's help to clear their complexions. Doctor's have access to a number of prescription-strength acne treatments that can work effectively when the over the counter options don't.
The Three-Step Approach to Acne Treatment
No matter what acne treatment you select, most will follow the same, basic three-step approach to treating acne. This includes an initial step of cleansing, to remove surface oil and other impurities. Gentle washing is usually best, since acne-prone skin can often be easily irritated by harsh acne treatments. Once cleansing is complete, it is time for medication. This usually means a product that contains benzoyl peroxide, which oxygenates the skin and keeps acne bacteria at bay. Since this part of your acne treatment can also dry your skin out, the final step should be to add an oil-free moisturizer that will keep your skin soft and smooth. By following these three steps of your acne treatment plan, you are already on the road to clearer skin. You simply need to find the product line of acne treatments that works the best for your complexion.
Acne is a condition that no one wants to live with for very long. The good news is that there are plenty of good acne treatments on the market today that can effectively clear you complexion and allow you to say goodbye to acne for good.