Common Sense Acne Treatment That Really Does Work

Pimple, zit, whitehead or blackheads are all common names for the skin disorder known the world over as Acne. Almost everyone in their lifetime will be affected by acne. Teenagers and young people have always been in the acne plagued majority and still are. In simple terms, acne refers to the secretion of sebum combined with dead skin and bacteria. This concoction is usually in reaction to clogged hair follicles. The sebum mixture builds up and that is when the bumps start to show up. Sometimes they are black (blackhead) and other times white (whitehead).

Acne breakouts are often believed to be related to hormones and heredity. Some in the past have suggested junk food may be a cause but most doctors agree that diet appears to be unrelated and does not cause acne. Self treatment or professional help are the main avenues to acne eradication. Although self treatment may appear to be the inexpensive route, professional help may in fact save more money in the long run with the right diagnosis and corresponding appropriate treatment plan. However, the following tips can help to control and or lessen the effects of acne.

* Wash your face at least twice a day and no more. Excessive washing can actually irritate acne. If you have dry skin, consider using Dove or Ivory if your skin is oily. For sensitive skin use a non soap cleanser like Cetaphil.

* Common key active ingredient to look for in a topical product is benzoyl peroxide, sulfer, resorcinol and salicyclic acid.

* The inactive ingredients usually alcohol (recommended for oily skin) or aqueous based (recommended for dry skin) also play a role in what may or may not work well on your skin.

* Avoid clinically and scientifically unproven over the counter remedies usually labeled as organic, natural or herbal.

* Seek professional help from your primary care physician or a dermatologist if conditions persist with self treatment. This really is the best common sense approach to treating acne.

* Invest your time and energy in the expertise of a doctor who has the knowledge and experience to properly diagnose and prescribe a treatment plan suitable for your condition. Not all acne breakouts are the same. A breakout may require a combination of treatments, modified over time with regular follow up results assessment and continual diagnosis. That is why it is called a "treatment plan."

* When choosing a dermatologist, verify if they are board certified by the American Academy of Dermatology. This ensures that their skills, knowledge and expertise have been reviewed, tested and that quality care can be expected.

Lastly and probably the most important aspect of any acne treatment plan is patience. There is no such thing as an instant cure or overnight remedy to acne. Noticeable results from an expert prescribed treatment plan will most likely take time, diligence and persistence.

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AJ Cocco enjoys writing articles on a variety of topics. Visit his latest website http://lavenderessentialoil.org/ for information on the soothing and relaxing effects of lavender essential oil.