Acne Treatment Blog

One of the most commonly used ingredients, Benzoyl Peroxide can be very effective in treating mild cases of non-inflammatory acne. It’s safe for children as well as adults, and may combined with other topical or oral treatments.

Benzoyl Peroxide - HOW IT WORKS

Benzoyl peroxide works by destroying P. acnes, the bacteria that causes the condition acne. It acts as an antiseptic and oxidizing agent, reducing the number of comedones, or blocked pores. It may be 2–3 weeks before you begin to see improvement.

NOTE: While benzoyl peroxide kills existing P. acnes, it does not increase your body’s natural resistance to bacteria. So even when your breakouts begin to disappear, you should keep treating acne-prone areas. Why? This course of acne treatment kills bacteria, but it does not affect sebum production or the rate at which you shed your dead skin cells. If you stop using it, the bacteria — and your acne — will return.

Benzoyl Peroxide - WHERE TO GET IT

Benzoyl peroxide is available in a wide range of gels, creams, lotions and cleansers in non-prescription concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. It is also available in presciption medications such as BenzaClin®, Benzamycin®, and Duac™. As with any product, read the label carefully and follow the instructions for proper use.

Benzoyl Peroxide - COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

Dryness: The most common side effect, dryness is usually mild. If the skin is visibly scaly, apply a light oil-free moisturizer.

NOTE: If you experience dryness, irritation or dermatitis and are using a 5% or 10% solution of benzoyl peroxide, you may want to give your skin some time to heal — then try a lower concentration.

Irritation: If you experience mild irritation, try decreasing the frequency of use. If irritation is severe or persists even with infrequent application, discontinue use.

Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis (red, dry, itchy skin) can be due to irritation or allergy. Discontinue use immediately and treat with a mild topical steroid, such as hydrocortisone cream (available in most drugstores).

Allergy: 1–2% of the population experiences a mild allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide. This is usually characterized by itching and redness.

Bleaching of clothing: Benzoyl peroxide can bleach clothing and linens; make sure your skin is completely dry before touching any cloth.

There are several acne alternative treatments that can help impede or even cure acne. The Chinese believe that acne is caused by toxicity and heat in the blood stream. Some view acne as a digestive problem where the poisons from poor digestion are discharged into the skin.; One of the most elemental alternative acne treatments is to consume a low fat diet, maintain proper hygiene, and eat proper vitamins. Saturated fat intake should be kept to a minimum, as they can damage the tissue of the body, and also induce inflammation.It has also be proposed to abstain from foods that may cause heat to build up in the body, like garlic, coffee, or spicy foods. Plenty of Vitamin A should be consumed, as it is essential for healthy skin. Zinc is also important as it helps heal the skin, and reduces hormonal imbalances. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential as they maintain cell membranes and aid in the transport of nutrients to the cells. Acidophilus capsules may be used to help with digestion.

Daily bowl movements are important so a high fiber diet should be adhered to. For acne that is cause by menstruation Vitamin B-6 is important as it can help regularly maintain the proper metabolism of the increased release of hormones.Some acne alternative treatments that may be applied directly to the skin include a honey facial. This is done by putting uncooked honey onto ones face and leaving it on the skin for five to ten minutes. Honey is said to revitalize the skin. Alternately tea tree oil may be applied to the skin. This has been said to impede bacteria from growing on the skin. Exfoliants may be used to treat acne and pimples. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha-hydroxyl acids that are found in citrus fruits. It is suggested that they lessen dead skin cells from building up. Therefore lemon juice can be mixed with water and applied to the face.

The juice should be allowed to dry on the skin for up to ten minutes and then is should be rinsed off. If one has sensitive skin more water may be required to the blend so the individual doesn’t experience too much of a “burning” sensation. Herbalists have their own concoctions to use as pimple alternative treatments. They suggest evening primrose oil, or black current seed oil capsules. Alternatively some recommend teas with Echinacea or goldenseal. Exercise and relaxation are also important alternative treatments for acne, as the body needs to be at its peak. While alternative acne treatments are controversial, especially with doctors, their success depends highly on the individual and the degree of acne they are suffering from.