Even when women’s acne is clearly caused by polycystic ovarian disease (PCOS) or fluctuations in hormone production, most dermatologists will prescribe the same acne treatments for women that they prescribe for men. Sometimes, however, treating the underlying hormonal imbalance is what is really needed to get rid of acne for good.

The most common treatment for women’s acne? The contraceptive Pill. After all issues of women’s health are considered, then you and your doctor may consider these common treatments that control acne as a symptom of another health issue.

The Pill. Various brands of oral contraception, such as Alesse, Estrostep, Ortho-Tricyclen, Yaz, and others, are often prescribed to treat symptoms including acne. In many women of reproductive age, the underlying cause of acne is a condition called polycystic ovarian disease, or PCOS.

A peculiarity of PCOS is that it may not actually cause cysts in the ovaries. Any combination of menstrual irregularity, infertility, and/or cysts in the ovaries may define the disease.

The underlying cause of PCOS is an unusually high ratio of testosterone to estrogen in a woman’s bloodstream. The ovaries make both estrogen and testosterone. When blood sugar levels go up, the sugar floods the ovaries and they have to use the extra sugar to make energy; they can’t store it as fat. The extra energy goes into making both testosterone and estrogen, but the relative excess of estrogen causes acne, hair growth, and menstrual irregularities. One way to deal with the problem is to go on a diet, but another way to deal with the problem is to get more estrogen into the body by taking a birth control pill.

Birth control pills are especially helpful for women who have PCOS and for women whose acne is worst around the time of their periods. Oral contraceptives are not a cure for acne, however. The reduction in sebum production is modest, and other methods of treating acne need to be used.

Moreover, birth control pills usually only help control acne for about a year or so. Eventually the body sense that testosterone levels are unnaturally low and the ovaries make more, which causes the acne to come back or get worse.

Finasteride is better known as Proscar or Propecia, the treatments given to men for prostate problems and hair loss. Sometimes women are prescribed finasteride for acne, but it’s only responsible to use the drug if you are absolutely certain you are not going to become pregnant. Even touching the pills during the first trimester of pregnancy can cause a baby boy to be born without genitalia.

Spironolactone, sold as Aldactone or Aldatone, is a drug designed to keep cells in the body from responding to testosterone. When skin pores aren’t activated by testosterone, they don’t make as much sebum. Spironolactone is typically used with oral contraceptives when both breast tenderness and acne are recurring symptoms of PMS. This drug also reduces water weight, but since it causes potassium retention, it can’t be used with blood pressure medications that also conserve potassium in the body.

Though acne scars were, at one time, a permanent problem that would, at best, diminish over time, there are more options available to reverse this. New methods, treatments, approaches and products have begun to make permanent acne scarring a thing of the past. The first thing you should know about, though, is the different types of scars and how these acne scars form.

The How and Why of Acne Scars

As with any type of damage that can occur to the skin, acne can leave scars. This can happen for a few different reasons. Often, people who pick at their acne or do not use a tool for extraction can end up causing the blemishes to leave their mark behind, long after the pimple has vanished. Other times, unfortunately, the body may react to certain types of acne by creating scar tissue. The most common types of acne to leave a scar are severe forms of acne, such as nodules and cysts, especially if not treated by a professional.

Types of Acne Scars

There are four categories of types of acne scars: ice picks scars, rolling scars, boxcar scars and Hypertrophic/Keloid scars.

• The most common type is the ice pick scar, which leaves a mark like a deep V that forms a pit.
• Rolling scars are, as the name implies, wave like formations on the skin that generally are wide and not very deep.
• Boxcar scars closely resemble chickenpox scars. These are often squared off and are generally found on the temple or cheekbone area.
• Hypertrophic scars are marks that remain after the blemish has gone and stay true to the original size of the mark. These marks are raised and do often diminish some, over time. Keloid scars, unfortunately, expand beyond the size of the original blemish and can be itchy.

The difference between acne scarring and other types of scars is that the scar occurs within the skin as opposed to on the surface, making treatment more challenging.

Options for Treating Scars

Two of the most popular methods many people go with to try to reduce or eliminate their scarring are to use laser treatment and dermabrasion. Both of these approaches may also be used to treat acne itself. For many, this is the most effective method to do away with the appearance of scar tissue. For Keloid scars, you can also steroids can be injected to help even out the surface between skin and scar tissue to create a flat, smooth surface.

Some people prefer to use topical treatments or dermal fillers. There a wide variety of these types of treatments, and they include items such as Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA), glycolic acid and Retin-A. Again, these are the types of products some people use to try to alleviate and eliminate general acne related blemishes, too. These help by the removing the top scar layers and creating a better overall skin texture and surface.

Products for Treating Acne Scars

You can also use products at home to try to improve the appearance of your scarring. People have often had great success in reducing the appearance or eliminating the presence of acne related scars by taking matters into their own hands. While there are a wide variety of products to select from, two seem to get much attention and great feedback pertaining to results as an effective method of treating scars. These products are the AZTEC SECRETS Indian Healing Clay and the Bio-Oil Scar Treatment.

• The AZTEC SECRETS Indian Healing Clay is often preferred because it does not contain additives, fragrances or animal products. This product is made up of bentonite clay from Death Valley that is sun dried for a period of time. To use the Indian Healing Clay, you simply mix with water or apple cider vinegar and apply to your face like a facial pack mask.

• The Bio-Oil Scar Treatment is hypo-allergenic, does not contain preservatives and is a mild and gentle formula, good for those who have sensitive skin. The key to the healing power of Bio-Oil is the PurCellin oil, which helps the other ingredients do their job and promote the best overall skin and scar treatment. Because the Bio-Oil is meant to be applied twice daily for at least three months, both of these products could be used to help speed up and ensure the success of your acne scar reversal process.

Mild to moderate acne is most commonly a form of acne known as Acne Vulgaris. The types of lesions that occur as a result of Acne Vulgaris can vary though. Some people who suffer from acne may have one kind of lesion associated with acne or multiple kinds. By identifying the type you have, you may also have greater success treating your acne and preventing future breakouts.

Blackheads and Your Skin

Blackheads are easy to distinguish, as their name is the best way to describe them. Part of the pore suffers blockage, which leads to this type of blemish. A combination of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria slowly drain towards the skin’s surface and create this problem. As with any skin blemish, you should not simply use your fingers to squeeze the debris clear.

To remove a blackhead, the best options are a pimple extractor, steam or washing the affected area with a mixture of warm water and Epsom salts. As for preventing blackheads, the best approach is to make sure you wash your face with a mild cleanser at least twice daily. Keeping your skin free of oils can help eliminate blackheads.

Whiteheads

Unlike blackheads, whiteheads happen when the pore of the skin is completely blocked. The same substances become completely trapped under the skin, which causes a small white spot to surface. Whiteheads generally disappear quicker and easier than blackheads, but also tend to happen much more frequently.

Squeezing whiteheads for extraction can be very harmful to the skin as it may cause the skin to break, which can result in scarring. You can try to use an extractor, but cleansing is the best way to treat and prevent whiteheads. Using a gentle exfoliator can help to open up and dry out blemishes, including whiteheads. By keeping the skin clear, as in washing at least twice a day, you reduce the chance of experiencing whiteheads. Steam can also help with the prevention of whiteheads as it draws out oil, bacteria and dead skin cells that become lodged in the pore and cause the whiteheads. Steaming also opens the pores to prevent materials from becoming trapped in the first place.

Papules and Pustules

Both of these types of blemishes are inflamed, red bumps. Pustules, however, also have a white or yellow tip, the result of trapped pus. For treating these two types of acne, benzoyl peroxide has proven to be an effective approach. You can use a cleanser or cream, or other products intended for acne that contain this ingredient. As with other forms of acne, it is best to not touch papules or pustules and let them run their course. They are the blemishes with the shortest life span, and generally clear up quickly if left alone.

Severe Acne Vulgaris

The two main blemishes associated with severe Acne Vulgaris are cysts and nodules. Nodules are, usually, larger blemishes that can be painful. These bumps are hard and can cause serious skin damage if one attempts to extract the contents by hand. A cyst is much like a nodule, except it contains pus instead of hardened debris. These can also be painful and are more likely to result in acne scarring.

It is advisable, for both of these types of blemishes, to allow a dermatologist to determine the best approach for removal. For nodules or cysts, a doctor will often use an injection of cortisone to reduce the swelling and reduce the inflammation. This is the best way to prevent scarring or further complications related to severe Acne Vulgaris.

Acne Rosacea

Though this can look similar to forms of Acne Vulgaris, there are differences. Many who are over the age of 30 and suffer a form of acne are actually experiencing Acne Roscea. Redness, bumps and visible blood vessels are common traits of this form of acne, but blackheads are not something that accompany Acne Roscea.

It is fairly important to determine if you have Rosacea or Acne as treatments for regular acne can cause the Rosacea to worsen. Topical treatments, oral treatments, Retinoids, laser therapy and Photodynamic therapy are all methods that can be used to treat or attempt to prevent Acne Rosacea. Check with your doctor to decide which type of acne you may be suffering from so you can use the best approach for treatment.

It is estimated that as much as 90% of people will have a bout of acne at least once in their lives. For some of the more fortunate ones, the affliction is not long term or severe. For others, the struggle with this skin condition can last years, often starting in the early teens and following someone well into adulthood.

If you are one of those unfortunate souls who have been dealing with more than a onetime bout of acne, you know how important but challenging taking care of your acne can be.

Diet and Acne

As with almost anything else health related in our lives, getting the proper diet can make all the difference. This can begin with just making sure you get plenty of water on a regular daily basis. Water helps flush out toxins in our system, and keeps us at the proper hydration level so that our skin can be healthier.

As for other diet tips for acne, it has been reported that foods rich in zinc can help prevent breakouts. Also, avoiding foods that contain high levels of fats, sugars or salts can help you to have healthier skin, all around.

The Importance of Clean Skin Throughout the Day

Keep in mind, if you secrete sweat during the day, from exercise or on hot summer days for example, following up with a refreshing wash can help prevent acne from being inflamed or new breakouts. Also, if you will be out in the sun, keep your blemished areas protected. Exposure to sun can cause breakouts that are more intensive and even lead to scarring.

Also, make sure you remove make up or anything that clogs the skin like that, carefully and as soon as possible to enable the skin to breathe. Glasses can also cause bacteria on the face to spread or fester. Keep more than your lenses clean; take care to wipe down the rims and any area that comes in contact with your skin. As a general rule, be mindful of what comes in contact with your skin throughout the day and keep it cleared up as possible.

 Your Skin Care Regimen

If you have problems with breakouts, including blackheads and whiteheads, then you have probably already come to realize the importance of caring for your skin. There are obviously other factors that determine the health of your skin, such as diet and exercise, but it starts with washing your face and using certain types of serums or tonics to help truly alleviate the problems.

When caring for your skin, make sure you are washing your skin at least twice a day. This means washing your face in the morning and before bed, at least. Many people who are working to overcome acne problems will also try to wash their face at some point in the middle of the day, as well, for optimal results. To properly wash your sensitive skin, use a cleanser that you have found does not inflame your blemishes and does not over-dry your skin, unless you have a acne-friendly moisturizer to counteract this problem.

• Gently lather face, using circular motions, taking care not to scrub as you wash.
• Use warm water for lathering and rinsing, as warm water helps to kill off bacteria.
• Follow up with a lotion that contains benzoyl peroxide, as this ingredient is known to eliminate oil and bacteria.
• Keep in mind, although it can be tempting to do so, popping or picking at acne and pimples will only lead to deeper problems, such as redness or even scarring.

Of course, the key to helping control and reduce your acne is also having the right cleanser. Some of this may be trial and error, as you determine the level of sensitivity of your skin. To start with, though, it may be a good idea to use one of the more popular products on the market, today.

Some Trusted Products for Acne

So, you should know that there are several products on the market today that make managing your skin condition possible.

• The Exposed Acne Treatment Basic Kit is a great way to get everything you need – cleanser, tonic and serums for your complete acne care.
• Maybe two of the best products by trusted names in the acne care market are the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash and the pHisoderm pH Anti-Blemish Gel Facial Wash.
• The acne.org 16 oz cleanser was developed by the people behind the acne.org website, an online community for acne sufferers.
• There’s also the Panoxyl Acne Foaming Wash, and the key feature of this wash is to remove dirt, unclog pores and make it easier for skin to breathe.

As you can see, there are popular and effective products on the market, and many of them have already established themselves among those who suffer with acne as trusted names in the industry.

There are many different theories on what causes acne and, to some degree, they may all be right. The important thing is to gain some insight to what some of the contributing factors may be so that you can work to eliminate your own acne breakouts. You may have one or more of these factors behind your own acne breakouts. By understanding what these are, you can work toward finding the right solution for you

Hormonal Reasons for Acne

The Androgen hormone is the one most commonly tied to acne breakouts. Decreasing levels of this hormone, in both men and women, can often result in the reduction or elimination of acne. The thing to keep in mind, though, is that hormones can become unbalanced at various points in one’s life and this should be taken into consideration if you are not a usual victim of blemishes. Puberty is a time when our hormones initially go into overdrive, and the result is often teenage acne. You may also notice hormone imbalances and resulting breakouts during pregnancy, menopause and any time you take a medication or supplement that may alter the balance of your hormones.

Genetic Factors behind Acne

As with most ailments, acne can be traced back to genetics. If members of your family were prone to bouts of acne, you may be a more likely candidate for breakouts yourself. The good news is that this gives you a place to start for your research towards finding treatments that work for your acne. If you know someone in your family suffered from acne, find out that products and methods worked, or didn’t, to prevent or eliminate acne.

Infectious or Bacteria Leads to Acne

Although a certain level of bacteria lives in the skin anyway, an increased amount can lead to breakouts. What happens, basically, is that the bacteria acts like a magnet to draw in white blood cells. The white blood cells, in turn, produce a cell wall damaging enzyme. The contents within the follicle respond by entering the dermis. The end result is inflammation, which causes various types of blemishes. At this time, though, it is not believed that the bacteria that lead to inflammations are contagious.

Can Stress Be Causing Your Breakouts?

There are two main reasons it is believed stress may lead to acne and breakouts. The first thing to consider is that stress can cause a breakdown or weakened immune system. Once the immune system is weaker, it is more prone to infections and bacteria. The end result can be an increase in acne related breakouts.

The other effect stress may have on the body that leads to breakouts, is inflammation. The heightened inflammation response breaks follicle walls, as what happens with increased bacteria levels. Alternatively, stress may heighten the level of androgen hormone produced, leading to breakouts.

Psychological Causes of Acne

The most common psychological connection between this and acne is stress. It is believed that emotional stress can play a huge role in the tendency to suffer breakouts. The problem often becomes that suffering with acne breakouts can lead to a greater amount of emotional stress, which, as a result, leads back to an increase in the number or severity of acne problems. The process becomes a vicious cycle that can be difficult to discontinue.

 Some Other Possible Causes

• It is most common for teens to experience acne, though it can creep up or continue into adulthood. Most often, though, with teens, the breakouts occur as a direct result of the hormone changes happening within the body.
• Dietary issues may also cause blemishes. For different people, it may be different things. For some it is the high level of chemicals in processed foods; for others it may be elevated amounts of sugar, salts, oils or fats in other foods.
• Other things you put into your body can also trigger acne. Some people suffer breakouts as a result of a new type of medication. While this may only be an initial reaction, it may also last for the duration of the medication regimen.
• Or, you may be suffering from not getting enough vitamins into your body. Most commonly, a lack of vitamins leads to a weakened immune system, which, in turn, can cause breakouts.

If you are struggling with acne, consider which one or more of these may be triggering your breakouts. Armed with this kind of information, you may be able to overcome your struggles and find ways to clear up your skin.

You may already have been using benzoyl peroxide without even knowing it. That’s because it is a common ingredient in many acne fighting products already. Products such as Clearasil and ProActiv both contain levels of benzoyl peroxide. So, benzoyl peroxide is already used in a good number of prescribed and over the counter products designed to help patients who suffer from acne try to overcome it.

The reasons benzoyl peroxide is a popular choice are that it was one of the first treatments discovered to successfully treat acne and it is also, generally, an affordable option. It also can be used for those who have mild to moderate cases of acne. If you fall into this category, and have not yet tried a benzoyl peroxide product, ask your dermatologist if one may be right for you.

How Benzoyl Peroxide Works

Some ingredients work by removing dead skin cells or working on the gland that secretes oil. Benzoyl peroxide actually introduces more oxygen into the pore. This, in turn, kills off bacteria that thrive in conditions where there is not enough oxygen. When dead skin or oils block the pore and prevent it from receiving enough oxygen, bacteria thrives, which causes breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide counterbalances this problem.

Benzoyl peroxide is reported to also help rid the follicle of debris, such as dead skin cells. By freeing the pores of blockages, you have less chance of breakouts and an easier time clearing up already present blemishes. With products containing benzoyl peroxide, you may need to continue use after breakouts have cleared up, though. Usually, this is because products that work to keep the pores unblocked require continued use so the skin can keep free of blockages that cause acne.

Who Can Use Benzoyl Peroxide Products?

First, if you suffer from more severe forms of acne, such as nodules or cysts, you may not be a good candidate for this type of product. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure of whether or not this would work for you. Women who are nursing, pregnant or may become pregnant should also consult their physician before use.

If you have a tendency to be overly sensitive and suffer from dry skin, you may notice more problems from using this. Otherwise, most people struggling with acne can use this and, hopefully, see results. It is not as harsh as some ingredients and tends to have fewer side effects because of this.

The Possibility of Side Effects

As mentioned before, dry skin can be a common side effect among users. You may also experience redness, flaking, burning or other discomfort. Often, this could be remedied with use of an oil-free moisturizer. If you suffer anything more severe or these effects linger or worsen, though, you should discontinue using benzoyl peroxide products. Consulting with your doctor can help determine if you should continue by using smaller amounts or stop completely.

Direct contact with hair or clothing may result in bleaching. Some users, in fact, also experience the same problem with their own skin, so blotchiness or uneven skin could occur. There have even been reports of permanent brown spots surfacing while using or following use of benzoyl peroxide products. Some side effects may depend on the types of products you use.

Products with Benzoyl Peroxide

From creams to gels, there are all kinds of products available that contain benzoyl peroxide to help with skin problems.

• One popular example is the Acne.org 8 oz Treatment.

• Or you may prefer a cleanser, such as the Topix Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Wash. This is a good way to introduce benzoyl peroxide into your skin care routine once or twice a day.

• For those looking for topical solutions, try the Glytone Acne Gel. This is a medical grade product that helps rejuvenate skin. It can be used up to three times a day.

It may take some trial and error by using different products, but you may find benzoyl peroxide works great for treating your acne.

You have probably heard of alpha hydroxy acid, and maybe even lactic acid. As you weed through various treatment methods that may be able to help you with your acne, you will undoubtedly want to consider this as an option. This colorless, odorless and organic acid compound is derived from mild sugars. Lactic acid is generally found as a component to aid in alpha-hydroxy products.

This acid helps exfoliate the skin and improve the surface of the skin as well as the overall appearance. It tends to be a preferred method for many because it can lead to obvious results while still being gentle enough to the skin. Even those with sensitive skin claim they were less affected while using products with lactic acid then others. You can find products such as cleansers, moisturizers and peels that contain this ingredient.

How It Works

Lactic acid works by attracting and maintaining moisture in the skin, which makes it a popular choice for patients who experience dry skin in addition to or because of their acne. Lactic acid also works by stimulating the creation of collagen in the deeper layers of skin below the surface. The greatest benefit lactic acid offers those who suffer with acne is the ability to free up the substance that acts like a glue compound within the skin.

This tends to cause the skin to hold on to dead skin cells too long. If the skin in unable to shed off that top layer of dead skin cells, this creates blocked pores which leads to acne. By exfoliating the skin, which is like a peel, the skin has a more difficult time producing whiteheads or blackheads. By removing the dead skin cells, the skin can breathe easier and is not clogged, so it is less likely there will be breakout.

Who Can Use Lactic Acid Products?

Generally, those who suffer from bouts of mild acne could potentially see results from using this product. More severe cases of acne tend to need something that is a bit harsher. Some patients have noticed results with their less than mild acne by using products that contained higher levels of lactic acid or alpha-hydroxy. Generally, though, this works better for people suffering with more mild cases.

Also, those who tend to have dry skin and acne may notice less of a harsh, drying effect from using this type of product. Although all acne treatments have the potential to cause some dryness, reports indicate fewer problems when using lactic acid. If you think you may be a candidate, the best thing you can do is speak to your doctor to find out if this may work for you.

Side Effects of Lactic Acid

There are fewer side effects reported from using lactic acid and alpha hydroxy than many other types of acne treatments. This also means you are not using something quite as drastic, which is why this is generally best for use with patients battling with mild cases of acne. As with any topical skin treatment, you may experience dryness, redness or other forms of skin irritations.

To prevent issues, you should not use products with this ingredient if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant or are nursing. If you are taking certain types of prescriptions or over the counter medications, you should consult your doctor first. Some of it depends on the type of product you use, of course, though patients find some of the best results from using peels that contain lactic acid.

Lactic Acid Peels

Generally, the main difference may be as simple as the content level within the peel, but there are several popular lactic acid peels available.

• Skin Laboratory makes one that is the Glyco-Lac 60 Level 2 Gel Peel. The solution is applied and left to sit for one minute before removing.
• For a stronger dose, try their Lactic Acid 70% Gel Peel. This claims to offer you results when used on a regular weekly basis.
• Another popular lactic acid product is the Philosophy Microdelivery Purifying Peel. This trusted name in skin care has developed a one minute purifying peel to help keep your skin in optimal condition.

In addition to these, there are plenty more to choose from, but these are some that you may want to consider.

It can get a bit confusing weeding through the various acne products on the market today. Not to mention, just the different types of acids that are behind some of the best selling acne products can be a bit overwhelming. How is one to know which one to use? The trouble is, often for acne, the approach has to be a bit of a trial and error. By working with your dermatologist, you may be able to rule out any that product he or she feels you may have an adverse reaction to. Otherwise, it will be a matter of trying to find what works best for your individual battle against your skin problems.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Because glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane, it can actually be considered a natural product. It is still possible to have a reaction, but it is at least a natural substance in its purest form. Glycolic acid is useful as a skin treatment because of the ability to exfoliate the skin so well. By working beneath the surface layer of damaged skin, glycolic acid helps remove this layer by chemically burning it off.

The overall result is a smoother skin surface. Glycolic acid can also contribute to helping draw moisture into the skin’s surface without creating a too oily effect that can cause breakouts. For these reasons, this ingredient has become a popular trend in many types of products for people who suffer from conditions other than acne or who are trying to get more youthful looking skin.

Who Can Use Glycolic Acid Products?

The main thing to be aware of is that if you know you have sensitive skin, this may not be the best product for you. Some of this can depend on what type of product you use, such as a peel versus a gel. The level of glycolic acid in the product can have an effect, too, on who can handle certain types of products containing this acid.

The best way to know if you can sustain the suggested use for a glycolic acid product is to start with less and work your way up to the full suggested amount. This could mean smaller amounts or less frequent use until you can be sure you are not having an adverse reaction to the product.

Some Possible Side Effects

As previously noted, higher levels of glycolic acid in a product may increase the likelihood of a reaction. Some claim that the higher the levels, the more effective the product. Of course, the obvious risks of redness and a higher sensitivity to sunlight are present. You may also notice swelling or stinging and possibly, in some cases, additional peeling.

Some other commonly reported side effects included dryness, flaking and, in more severe instances, scarring. Other possibilities include uneven skin tone or blotches. Overall, if you use the product in smaller concentrates, smaller doses or less often than suggested, at least in the beginning, you can monitor closely for side effects. If you notice any, discontinue use immediately until you have a chance to consult with your doctor.

Products with Glycolic Acid

Some of the most common products with glycolic acid include gels, peels and lotions or creams. You may want to start with something gentler, such as a cream, and work your way up to a peel. Either way, you should be familiar with a few of the more widely recognized products that contain glycolic acid.

• For those who want to start with a cream, the Aqua Glycolic Face Cream can do wonders. It claims to have the highest level of glycolic acid available without a prescription, though, but should be less extreme than starting with a peel. Dermatologist recommended, this removes dead skin cells and smoothes the overall appearance.

• For peels, it depends on the level of glycolic acid you want. The Glycolic Acid 35% by Skin Laboratory still boasts an entry-level professional strength peel and even claims to work on acne scars.

• Skin Obsession, however, has a 40% Glycolic Acid Peel for Acne, Scars, Age Spots and Lines. This one is meant to increase skin cell turnover leaving your skin healthier.

Many people who suffer with acne, though, have seen results by using products containing glycolic acid, and you may find you can too.

For those who suffer with acne, the struggle to find the right skin care product can be an ongoing process. Every day, more product makers claim they have the best new thing to finally, help you get rid of your acne problems. Of course, the truth is that some products work for some people while others may not. There is a certain level of trial and error involved when trying to find what works best for you.

Not to mention, your skin can also build up immunity to products, over time. So that wonder pill or peel that once worked miracles may begin to lose its effectiveness. Instead of being frustrated or losing hope, it just means that it may be time to move on to try another product. Knowing what options are available to you is one good approach to take to find an acne combatant that works for you.

How It Works

While other products work to minimize the oil gland production or kill bacteria in the follicles, salicyclic acid promotes the natural removal of dead skin cells. By increasing the rate, or simply ensuring this happens as it naturally should, the skin pores remain clear from blockages that can lead to acne.

The basic idea is that this works to penetrate deep into the follicle and remove anything obstructing the lining or the pore itself. With this product, though, you will need to continue to use it even after your skin has begun to clear up. This is required because it means you need to continue to prevent your follicles from becoming blocked. Patients who discontinued use following clear-ups were often disappointed to find the problem returned. Maintaining usage can help prevent this from happening.

Can Anyone Use Salicyclic Acid?

Salicyclic acid is best suited for those who have non-inflammatory blemishes. Those who have even lesions though, may consider using this product. Keep in mind your own sensitivity to topical products as this often comes in a peel form, which can be intense for many who have very sensitive skin. You can also try other OTC (over the counter) products containing salicyclic acid if your skin is too sensitive for peels.

There are lotions, creams, alcohol-based solutions and medicated pads that contain salicyclic acid as an ingredient. The important thing is to monitor your skin to ensure you are not suffering reactions or side effects from the use of this type of product. As with any product, if you are pregnant, become pregnant or are nursing, you should consult with your doctor before using salicyclic acid.

Are There Side Effects?

As with any product, there is the potential for side effects. The good news, though, is that many of these reported a milder form of the effects as opposed to some other topical acne fighting methods. Skin irritation or dryness may occur in some patients who use salicyclic acid products. You can try reducing the amount or frequency in which you use a product with this ingredient, but if the problems continue or are severe, you should discontinue use.

There are some steps you can take to avoid the likelihood of side effects:

• Avoid using soaps that may be abrasive or other topical acne treatments that contain a peeling agent.

• If you use cosmetics or soaps that have a tendency to dry the skin, you should opt for something else while using salicyclic acid products.

• Another consideration is to avoid using any other topical skin medicine or product at all during this time.

Of course, you will want to get an idea of some of the well-received salicyclic acid products on the market, now, to decide what may work for you.

Salicyclic Acid Peels

Keep in mind, you can obtain products that contain salicyclic acid without using a peel. The ones for those who have skin that isn’t overly sensitive to peels are often considered more effective.

• The first one is the Skin Beauty Solutions Salicyclic Acid 30% Skin Peel. This loosens and pulls away oil and debris from the surface of the skin and dislodges blockages.

• Skin Laboratory’s Salicyclic Acid 20% Gel Peel is also a popular choice. Use weekly and notice your pores becoming unclogged. This can also reduce the appearance of pores.

Remember, start gradually and back off if you have a reaction, but you may find salicyclic acid products are just the thing for you.

Dealing with acne can be a daunting task that has an impact on your entire life, not to mention your bank account when you try different methods of treatment. It is a good idea to be informed about the different types of acne treatments and prevention tactics available today. Knowing what options are available to you makes it is easier to determine what may work best for you. Also, you will want to decide if you would rather use hyaluronic acid as a pill or in a topical solution.

From topical solutions to laser treatments to pills, it can be difficult to choose where to start. Working with a trusted dermatologist is an important step as he or she can help guide you through the process. In addition to the approaches mentioned, hyaluronic acid is another method many acne sufferers have found works for them. Before starting this kind of treatment, however, be sure you know some of the facts, potential side effects and consult your doctor to see if he or she feels you are a suitable candidate for this method of battling breakouts.

How Hyaluronic Acid Helps with Acne

The main claim that hyaluronic acid makes is that it promotes overall healthier skin. By repairing skin cells damaged by acne, this product is reported to be able to help restructure skin. By doing this, it improves the skin’s current condition and helps prevent future breakouts. This product also, for some people, repairs skin tone and restores the skin’s ability to issue the natural moisture without being too oily.

The data about hyaluronic acid is that healthy skin has a chance to counterbalance and even fight off unhealthy toxins or bacteria that can lead to blemishes. Because acne can be triggered by bacteria in the follicle of the skin, having healthy skin makes it difficult for bacteria to dominate the follicles and affect the skin’s surface.

Hyaluronic Acid Works for Whom?

Hyaluronic acid is found in products you can buy without a prescription. Therefore, technically, anyone of consenting age can try it as a form of attack against acne breakouts. The best thing to do, though, is to consult with your own doctor and do a little research. By reading reviews from others who have tried this product, you can get a better idea of if you would be a good candidate to use hyaluronic acid.

The Possible Side Effects

Many of the potential side effects depend on how something is administered. Therefore, for any type of acne treatment, how something affects you in topical form versus oral form can differ greatly. It also depends on your own medical and health history, allergic reactions and even levels of sensitivity to certain things. Please, also note, if you begin using a hyaluronic acid product and notice irregularities in any area of your health, you should discontinue use until you can consult your physician.

One problem reported was allergic or hypersensitive reactions to hyaluronic acid. Other alarming signs could include, but are not limited to, headaches, diarrhea, nausea and itchy or agitated skin. Also, watch for skin swelling, vomiting, fever or breathing difficulties. Some users reported staining, blotchiness or darkening of the skin. Any of these should be a warning sign while using hyaluronic acid.

Popular hyaluronic acid products come in both topical and oral form. If you have sensitive skin, you may opt to try the pills. Either way, you should know about some of the top sellers out there.

For an oral pill form, you may want to try Source Naturals Hyaluronic Acid tablets. The main feature of this product is the ability to promote healthy skin, for many users. Please keep in mind, though, that the FDA has not evaluated statements made for this product. So, it is based on claims and reviews from others who have used the product.

For topical alternatives, you have other choices; these are all from The Timeless Skin Care line. The HA Spray is a non-greasy topical spray that dries clear. It is natural and paraben-free and is often used as an alternative to Retin-A. One of the most popular is the Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Simply cleanse the skin then apply a few drops, which can be combined with your favorite moisturizer.

Finally, the Matrixyl 3000 Serum contains high levels of hyaluronic acid that cannot be found elsewhere.