Acne vulgaris, commonly referred to as pimples, is a common skin condition that affects adults as well as teenagers. Every year 85 percent of teenagers will experience acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The exact cause of acne has not been found. Acne is not curable, but numerous products and treatments are available that can control acne and prevent scarring. The top acne solution products are ones that work.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is an over-the-counter acne treatment. It is one of the top acne solution products purchased without a prescription. It slows the shedding of skin cells and prevents the pores from clogging. Salicylic acid may break down whiteheads and blackheads. It can cause mild skin irritation and stinging.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the top over-the-counter acne products that are effective in treating acne. Benzoyl peroxide removes excess oils and dead skin cells, thereby unclogging the pores. It can cause extreme dry skin, redness, burning and stinging, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Erythromycin
Erythromycin is an antibiotic that is applied topically. It is only available by prescription. It kills a broad spectrum of bacteria. It is an antimicrobial and an anti-inflammatory. Erythromycin is sometimes used with benzoyl peroxide, which is proven an effective treatment for acne. Use of the two products together can cause excessive dryness of the skin.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are one of the top acne solutions for treating moderate to severe cases of acne. These are used if topical treatments do not yield results. Antibiotics are also combined with other treatments, including topical creams.
Tretinoin Topical
Tretinoin is one of the top used retinoid. It is a natural tetinoid and comes in liquid, cream and gel forms. It is available by prescription only. Tretinoin unclogs pores and keeps them unclogged. It causes the skin to peel thereby unclogging the pores. Other products, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and dandruff shampoos, that contain sulfur should not be used with tretinoin.
Adapalene is another topical retinoid. It is synthetic and works in the same manner as tretinonin. Tazarotene is another synthetic retinoid. It also keeps the pores clear and is proven effective in treating acne. Pregnant women should not use Tazarotene. It has caused birth defects in animals, according to the American Academy of Dermatologist.
Use of topical retinoids cause sun sensitivity. A sunblock of 30 SPF or higher should be used and exposure to sun limited. In addition, extreme wind and harsh weather causes skin irritation and should be avoided.
