Acne is a frequent dilemma that people of all ages suffer from as a result environmental factors, mental stress and hormonal shifts in the body. Hormonal shifts in the body are identified as a major cause of acne development. The androgen hormone induces the sebaceous glands to secrete excessive amount of oil or sebum. This causes the skin pores to get clogged and leaves room for bacteria and dirt to accumulate. Acne formation thereafter becomes inevitable. Several types of treatments are available from home based remedies to over the counter medication and prescribed medication. The degree of effectiveness depends of the type and severity of the acne.

Over the counter medication in particular is quite effective for acne however it I generally used to treat mild acne. It is widely available in stores in the form of gel, creams and lotion. The two most common types of over the counter medication used to treat acne include benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

Benzoyl peroxide works by killing bacteria P, it also helps reduce the excessive oil and dead skin cells in the skin pores clearing the skin and reducing acne breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide is considered to be rather effective however it is recommended that the product with a lower concentration of the main component, preferably around 2.5%. Excessive amounts can cause dryness and peeling of the skin making the acne condition worse. The medication should be used regularly and even after the acne breakouts are cured since there is a likelihood that acne could develop again.

Salicylic acid is another over the counter medicine generally used to treat acne blemishes and prevent it from reappearing. Such medication works best against inflammation particularly black heads and white heads. It works by increasing the rate at which the skin sheds the dead skin cells allowing the pores to get unclogged and the skin to clear up. The medication works best when it is used on a regular basis to avoid the acne to develop again. The medication is usually available in the form of lotions, cleansing pad and cream.

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