If your acne is mild enough, you may want to try some methods of self-treatment before seeing a doctor or dermatologist.
There are over the counter, non-prescription treatments that may work for you.
Here are the FAQs on 4 common ways to treat acne that don't require a visit to the doctor or a prescription: 1.
Alcohol and Acetone Q: How do Alcohol and Acetone work to treat acne? A: Alcohol, a mild antibacterial, helps remove oil from the surface of the skin.
Acetone is a degreasing agent helps keep the skin surface clear.
Q: How safe and effective are they? A: While both of these common chemicals are safe, they are generally much less effective than more modern treatments.
The problem is that the excess oil that contributes to acne lies well under surface where it acts as a growth medium for bacteria which contributes to clogged pores.
While removing the surface oil can be helpful, it is of limited benefit.
2.
Benzoyl Peroxide Q: How does Benzoyl Peroxide work? A: Benzoyl Peroxide works by going after the bacteria lying under the surface of the skin.
The bacterium that is partially responsible for acne in the first place is called Propionibacterium.
Benzoyl Peroxide can also be used for the important task of removing dead skin cells, which need to be washed or sloughed off the surface of the skin to prevent clogging.
Q: How safe and effective is it? A: This is a common and effective treatment for mild acne which is used daily by millions.
Because Benzoyl Peroxide has been in use for decades, the possible side effects are well known, one of which is excessive drying of the skin.
The risk of excessive drying of the skin can be minimized by using the proper amount.
Always start with the lowest available concentration, usually a 2.
5% concentration.
Q: What happens if I use a stronger concentration? A: If 2.
5% is working, and you see a clearing of your acne don't think that 10% is better, or will work faster.
Higher dosage only increases the odds of side effects without any compensating value.
Also, be very careful using this treatment while you are dressed as it can also bleach fabric.
3.
Salicylic Acid Q: What is Salycylic Acid? A: Salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin, has many uses and is safe and effective when used properly.
This simple compound is sometimes called a miracle drug because of its many safe uses.
Q: How does it work? A: Salicylic acid slows down the process of shedding dead skin cells inside the follicle, making build up and compaction less likely.
This prevents bacteria build up inside the pore.
It also helps break down blackheads and whiteheads, making it easier to remove them.
Q: What form does it come in for acne use? A: It is often found in the form of soaked pads, which makes it very easy to use.
Unless recommended by your dermatologist, Salicylic Acid should not be combined with other treatments as excessive skin irritation can occur.
4.
Resorcinol Q: What is Resorcinol? A: Resorcinol is another popular non-prescrption medication and is effective in many cases, especially when combined with other compounds such as sulfur.
It should not be used in conjunction with astringents such as alcohol.
Q: How does it get rid of acne? A: Resorcinol works by breaking down hardened skin, leading to more effective removal of blackheads and whiteheads from the follicle and surrounding area.
The softening of the skin also produces less likelihood of clogging, a major factor in acne formation.
Q: What should I do if none of these works for me? A: Be sure to use these non-prescription medications in the manner directed on the product.
If acne persists for more than a couple of weeks, or grows worse, see a dermatologist.
If these non-prescription, natural remedies don't work for you, your doctor may want to prescribe something stronger.
In general, if you combine these over the counter remedies with overall good skin care, together, they can do an effective job of clearing up acne in as short a time as possible.