Acne Treatments

What Are Acne Treatments?

Acne treatments develop through research on skin conditions and how acne affects people physically and psychologically. These factors are important when determining what makes an effective acne treatment.

Acne treatments serve to reduce or eliminate the effects of acne. Such treatments rely on the age and gender of the person as well as the type of acne the person has. For example, some acne treatments are designed at adolescents, whereas other acne treatments are targeted at adults. Acne treatments, then, are as varied and particular as the types of acne and people they serve to help.

What Do Acne Treatments Do And How Do They Work?

Acne treatments prevent or reverse the progressive damage caused by the invading elements of acne. They serve to improve physiological and psychological health and bring forth hope for a greater quality of life.

Below are some common acne treatments and preventatives:

• Vitamins A, B-2, B-3, E, and Zinc – Nutrients in certain foods, such as fish, dairy products, fruits, and green vegetables, improve circulation and reduce the cholesterol level in the blood to promote healthy skin and metabolize protein, sugar, and fat—increasing energy through healthy eating habits.


• Oral Contraceptives – These regulate a woman’s cycle and lower hormone production during periods. Combined with certain medication, these contraceptives curb hormone levels in pregnant women and control testosterone production brought on by menopause.


• Soap and shower — Cleansing washes out the heat and moisture trapped in skin. Scrubbing and picking at acne is inadvisable, as are alcohol- or oil-based chemicals that will further irritate skin.


• Medication — Benzoyl Peroxide, antibiotics, and other especially developed medications kill bacteria in the skin, unclog pores, reduce or prevent inflammation, stop or lower hormone production, and encourage skin renewal.


• Shaving materials — Warming the skin with water and lathering up prior to shaving reduce “shaving bumps” Using a new single-bladed razor and shaving downward rather than upward lessens irritation to the skin.


• Sunscreen and clothes — Clothes made of loose-fitting cotton, or a lycra-cotton blend, reduce skin irritation. Overexposure to the sun’s rays promotes clogged pores, and Sunscreen protects the skin. Because certain medications make the skin extra-sensitive to the sun, Sunscreen is even more important to control acne.


• Exercise — Exercise increases circulation and reduces stress levels. Dry, cotton-based, loose-fitting clothes are best to reduce sweat. Cosmetics are not advisable, as they clog the pores, especially when combined with sweat before showering. If acne persists, it is important to re-examine the workout routine.

When deciding which acne treatments to use, awareness of one’s own biology and particular acne condition is advisable. Consulting a doctor is always a good option for further insight and direction.