Which acne treatment is best for you?
Acne is a common ailment that
plagues millions of teenagers and adults throughout America and the world. Acne
treatment is widely available in many forms from over-the-counter topical
solutions to doctor-prescribed medications, but it can be confusing to know
which one is right for you. Some acne sufferers prefer to go the natural route,
while others prefer medical intervention instead. The severity of the
acne and
health of the patient must be analyzed before a suitable treatment plan can be
followed, and of course a physician should always be consulted. Here is a list
of common natural and medical acne treatments and who they are best suited for:
Medical
Retin-A
For moderate to severe acne sufferers, this is a topical cream that attacks
whiteheads and blackheads. It is a derivative of vitamin A, and results can take
up to 8 weeks to be seen. Many users experience red, itching skin when they
first begin the treatment, which subsides over time.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Used in cream form, benzyol peroxide has a drying effect on the skin and helps
to reduce breakouts. Dry skin can occur, but using a gentle moisturizer can fix
this problem. Not suitable for severe acne sufferers.
Tetracycline
This treatment is taken internally and is prescribed for moderate to severe acne
sufferers who do not get results with topical creams. Used to reduce
inflammation and breakouts, this form of acne treatment does have many side
effects and should be used as a last resort.
Birth Control
Many birth control pills are effective in reducing acne in female sufferers due
to their increased hormone content which balances the testosterone in the body
and reduces breakouts. Oil production is also reduced. The pill comes in many
strengths than can treat mild to severe acne.
Cosmetic
Microdermabrasion
This is a cosmetic procedure that removes dead skin cells and resurfaces the
skin by removing impurities. Microdermabrasion is painless and can significantly
smooth skin damaged by acne, but does not reduce breakouts.
Chemical Peels
In this treatment the top layer of the skin is removed by a chemical peel. New
skin is exposed while scarring caused by acne is reduced, however the recovery
can be painful and hard to disguise as skin is left red and sore until it heals.
Not effective in prevent future break outs, this is suitable for those who want
to diminish the looks of scars and even out skin tone.
Natural
Herbs
Visiting a herbalist can help to balance the hormones that cause acne. Commonly
a mixture of the following herbs will be prescribed: Burdock, Yellow Dock,
Dandelion Root, Red Clover and Sarsaparilla. A topical solution of eucalyptus
oil and mustard seed oil is also used by herbalists to treat acne.
Natural Face Washes and toners
Commercial products can aggravate acne and a switch to natural products can
help. Using a homemade oatmeal face wash followed by a witch hazel toner can
soothe and calm breakouts.
Acne treatments will work
differently on everyone. A discussion with your GP will allow you to discuss the
best options for your skin type, however in all cases a balanced diet and
drinking 8 glasses of water a day is essential to promote healthy skin.
|
