If you do not have a severe form of acne like cystic acne, then an over-the-counter overnight acne treatment can be quite effective. Several different factors can cause acne in teens or adults, such as hereditary, diet, hormones, and skincare products. The most difficult part is finding an over-the-counter acne medication that works without causing other issues to your skin, such as itching or bumps. A team from the Mayo Clinic reviewed hundreds of over-the-counter products in search of the best acne treatments. They looked at reported results, active ingredients for quality, natural extract ingredients, and reported incidents of side effects. They also investigated product reviews online, and after considering the information with doctors, they determined the top three over-the-counter acne treatment products are Exposed Skin Care, ZenMed Derma Cleanse, and ClearPores. Keep reading to learn the top eight questions and answers about acne treatments, so you can choose the one that's right for you.
Benzoyl peroxide is the main ingredient that kills bacteria that can cause acne. It also helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells that clog pores. You will find benzoyl peroxide in the best acne products for oily skin. Salicylic Acid helps prevent clogged pores, and Glycolic Acid helps to rejuvenate and grow new skin cells.
Side effects from OTC acne treatment products are always possible, and some may stop after a short period of use. If they persist are if you have a severe effect, then you should stop using the product and see your doctor. Some common mild side effects may be dry or peeling skin after a few days use, mild stinging, the skin feeling warm, or redness. Less common side effects are burning, blistering, itching, a rash, or swelling.
Follow the directions and avoid oily or heavy cosmetics, sunscreen, or hair products. Work not to pick or squeeze any blemishes because this can cause infections and scarring to your skin. Be careful of what touches your face, such as keeping your hair clean and away from your face or holding your cell phone against your face.
Exposed Skin Care, ZenMed Derma Cleanse, and CearPores each had the highest ratings for scientific active ingredients and skin repair ingredients, placing them among the best acne treatments you can try at home. They all have the largest number of natural extracts that are proven to heal skin. Each product was rated highly effective for all skin types, such as normal, combination, sensitive, and oily skin type.
No, each product has a daytime formula and a nighttime formula. The best acne night creams are designed to work harder while you're sleeping. Each treatment brand also has a particular facial cleanser designed to promote cleaner pores and skin healing. Each brand has a line of products designed to be used together to increase their effectiveness.
You can overuse the products, which will increase the incidents of side effects. The effective ingredients in these OTC acne treatment products are powerful, and it is possible to cause your skin more damage with overuse. The best thing to do is to follow the instructions, so more isn't always better.
Everyone's skin is a little different, but you should see some improvements within a couple of weeks. If the acne doesn't show marked improvements after two to three months, then your acne is not responding to the treatment. If your acne does not improve, it could be time to visit your doctor or dermatologist that can help you determine a better course of therapy for acne treatment.
Green tea naturally helps kill the bacteria that can lead to acne. Passion flower contributes to reducing inflammation of the skin, which reduces clogged pores. Aloe Vera is excellent for soothing and moisturizing irritated skin from acne, weather, and skin products. Sage extract works to fight free radicals, which can develop from sun exposure or other causes. Tea Tree stimulates healing, which you want when you are treating your skin for acne. The best acne treatments often contain natural ingredients, and you may need to experiment to see which product works best for you.