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Having blemishes on the one part of your body that is constantly in the limelight can be embarrassing to say the least. For those with severe acne, it can take a huge toll on self esteem. Rather than let acne run your life, take control and learn how to deal treat your skin properly by getting the right acne treatment products
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There are different stages of acne ranging from mild noninflammatory acne to severe inflammatory acne. Depending on the severity of the acne, different products should be used to treat the problem. In most cases, over-the-counter products in the right combination can be effective and not too expensive. There are also prepackaged kits that contain everything you need to develop a healthy skin care program, although these may cost more in the long run.
Which products do you need?
When shopping for drugstore variety acne products the best thing you can do for yourself is to take the time to read the ingredient and know what it is the product can do for you. It's also important to understand the side effects of each drug so that you can properly counteract them.
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Alcohol and Acetone: These are commonly found in astringents |
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Glycolic and lactic acid (less irritating) are commonly found in chemical peels |
Organics: Tea tree oil |
Sulfur: This is often found in masks |
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Benzoyl Peroxide: This is the most common acne fighting ingredient found in most products, from washes, to lotions, to treatments. It is best to use as soon as you see a breakout. Follow through with the product until the blemish has subsided to help reduce scarring. Typically face wash and cleansing pads will have about 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, whereas some stronger products have up to 10%. This is a strong chemical, so you should start slowly, follow instructions and always use a moisturizer with an SPF in it afterwards because it will increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Remember that it is also a bleaching agent. It may cause redness and flaking or peeling when you first start using it, but that should go away after a week or so. If it doesn't, buy a product with a lower percentage benzoyl peroxide. If you have dry or sensitive skin, go with a lower percentage to start and work up as needed. |
Salicylic Acid: This BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) is another very common ingredient found in acne products such as astringents, cleansers and sometimes lotions. It does not reduce sebum, but it does help unclog pores. Use it to help heal blemishes and to help reduce the possibility of scarring. It can irritate and dry the skin so start a salicylic acid treatment carefully and remember to moisturize. Use it in conjunction with a benzoyl peroxide product for the best results. |
Triclosan: Many face washes include this antibacterial ingredient, which when used alone, is perfect for keeping acne at bay if you have the occasional bout of pimples. As an antimicrobial, it helps eliminate the bacteria that causes acne so it's perfect for mild acne. It can also be used as an alternative to harsher products if you have dry or sensitive skin and need to give it a rest for a day. |
The following are suggestions for products that when combined (one from each section), may be effective on mild to moderate acne. Remember that this is a rough guide and is not a sure fire prescription to solve every individual's problem. Like with all skin care products remember that it takes time to find what works best for you. The products that have been chosen here were selected from the reviews found at CosmeticsCop.com, Acne.org and MakeupAlley. The last series of listings are finalists for the CEW, Cosmetic Executive Women Beauty Awards. All the products listed here, with the exception of the DDF toner and the Bliss spot treatment, cost less than $20.
So fresh and so clean! The first step towards a fresher more confident you is to simply wash your face! You may not be able to rid yourself from all the residual grime of life's trials and tribulations, but that's no reason your face should have to wear it! Choose any one of these products to bring that fresh and clean look to your face.
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Eww, yuck! Oh the honest cruelty of natural light. It shows no ounce of remorse as it highlights wrinkles, pores, and skin discoloration. Don't hide away in embarrassment, flght back! Give your skin the even tone you desire with these pore mininmizing and refining products. Go ahead, embrace that natural light. You have nothing to hide.
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Dry, rough, and itchy skin. It can be as frustrating and embarrassing as acne. With all the difficult decisions we have to make in life, choosing a good mositurizer should not be one of them. Give your skin the care and nourishment it needs with any of these mositurizing products.
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Eucerin Clear Skin Formula Daily Control & Care Moisture Creme |
Zap 'em dead! Who says you have to spend a lot to have great looking skin! Beautiful, blemish-free, skin is in your reach. Whether your face is harvesting pimples like it is its job or just allows for the occasional pimple or two, these acne treatments are ready to take on those nasty critters, one breakout at a time.
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For those of us with a bit more pocket change. Oooo, fancy!
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