Over-the-counter Acne Cleansers as a Treatment Option for Mild and Moderate Acne
Acne cleansers are one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to treat mild to moderate acne breakouts. Many acne cleansers are available over the counter without a trip to your dermatologist, and can be picked up at the local pharmacy conveniently.
While over the counter products have a lower concentration of active ingredients which do the job of actually clearing the acne and preventing new ones from forming, they should suffice in controlling most minor cases of acne. These are specialized cleansers that are designed to clean oily skin, removing excess oil, dirt, sweat, and cosmetic residues from the skin.
Many cleansers also contain active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide which helps reduce acne causing bacteria from the skin's surface.
Don't over-cleanse
Use acne cleansers as recommended. Resist the temptation to cleanse more than advised on the product label in an attempt to clear out the acne faster. Over-cleansing is counterproductive as it not only irritates the skin, but will often dry out the skin, and cause the skin to overcompensate by producing even more oil. Be consistent in your use, and follow the instructions provided on the product, or the recommendations of your dermatologist.
Have realistic expectations
Acne is known for poor patient compliance. That is, patients often give up or fail to follow treatment plans to treat their acne. This is unfortunate because modern day acne treatments are very effective and patients are giving up before the medication takes full effect.
Acne cleansers aim to inhibit new acne pimples from developing, but cannot remove existing acne. Furthermore it often irritates the skin initially, causing the patient to believe that the cleanser worsened their condition. Patients need to have realistic expectations.
Acne cleansers at best, reduce acne by 20% a month when used consistently. Acne will not disappear overnight, and using them at the start of the week won't rid you of pimples for the party on the weekend. Used consistently, they will improve your skin over months.
Use acne cleansers to cover the area where pimples usually form
Acne cleansers generally aim to produce new acne from being formed. Most actives do not actively remove existing pimples. Therefore, apply the acne cleansers not only to areas that are affected now, but the entire area of the face that is often affected by acne.
Don't hesitate to see a dermatologist
Acne is a common and semi-chronic problem for people with that tendency, especially during their teen years. Most of the time, visiting a dermatologist every time acne breaks out is not reasonable. They are, however, experts on acne and other skin problems and can help you choose the right products and make recommendations to improve your skin in the long term.
Also, if you have severe or cystic acne, understand that over the counter acne medications will not have any effect on them. You will need to see your dermatologist for stronger treatment options.
