Two Acne Treatments That Truly Work

If you're considering treatment for acne then it's best to start by differentiating between medication administered orally and prescribed by a doctor, and acne treatments that are applied to the skin, like a lotion, serum or cream.

Prescribed medication is given to you after consultation with a doctor, either a dermatologist or your primary care physician. These medications can include something that seems a bit out of the ordinary, like a low dose of a birth control pill. Alternatively, you may be prescribed an antibiotic or an oral form of retinoid. Tetracycline is the antibiotic most frequently recommended, and Accutane is the usual prescribed retinoid. Accutane is also known by its generic name, Isotretinoin. The estrogen will help to prevent some blemishes in women, especially when these are related to changes in hormones. Another medication is Spironolactone, which is an androgen blocker. The idea behind the androgen blockers is that they help to lessen the buildup of sebum in the pores, build up that usually results in blackheads and pimples.

Unfortunately, there are problems with the medications for some people; in fact, there is growing concern that widespread use of medications has led to the development of more resistant strains of acne bacteria. The other problem is the potential for serious side effects. Pregnant women should not use Accutane, for example, because of a risk of birth defects. There are also reports of possible links with suicide and depression. It is worthwhile to have all the facts in hand before you take any medication, much less those with serious side effects.

So what choices do you have? There are many other forms of treatment out there, but I want to share two with you that have a great track record, do not require a doctor's visit, and have a limited risk of adverse side effects.

One great over the counter treatment is the Obagi Clenziderm line of acne products. The Obagi Acne Therapeutic system has a formulation of 5% benzoyl peroxide. They have a patented type of benzoyl peroxide that penetrates deep into the affected area, targeting the bacteria that create pimples. Obagi has two different lines depending on the type of skin you have: normal to dry skin or normal to oily skin. The normal to oily skin product is rather powerful, and you should use this only if your skin tolerates acne products without much trouble. The normal to dry skin version is better for those with sensitive skin.

The Obagi Clenziderm line of acne products has earned a terrific reputation for treating moderate to severe acne, but it could take several weeks to get your skin blemish free.

The next product is one that anyone who cares about his or her skin should be aware of, the Clarisonic Mia. The Clarisonic Mia is a facial skin cleansing system, not just a product designed to fight acne. It is an exfoliating tool, and is made for deep cleansing. This is where it helps with treating and, with regular use, preventing acne. The Mia is a hand held device that works through a pulsating action to loosen sebum, dirt and makeup off your skin, leaving your pores clean and encouraging new skin cell growth. An added benefit is that the skin absorbs moisturizers and treatments better after use. The brushes on the Clarisonic vibrate against your skin in a gentle way, removing the outer layer.

These are two of the best acne products you can buy, and they don't involve risky medication with severe side effects.

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