Is Benzoyl Peroxide The Best Acne Treatment?
The best acne treatments can often differ from person to person. There are many acne treatments which are available nowadays. The two main types are topical treatments (these are rubbed onto the skin) and oral acne treatments which are taken by mouth. Milder forms of acne are usually treated with over-the-counter medications, but more aggressive forms will often need prescription medication. You should begin treatment as early as possible, this will usually make acne scar formation less likely.
Topical Treatments
Usually topical treatments come in the form of creams which are applied to the skin of the affected areas. These treatments include topical benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and topical antibiotics. Benzoyl peroxide is usually used in the treatment of mild acne to moderate acne, and topical antibiotics for treating mild acne to moderate acne. Topical retinoids are normally used for moderate acne.
Benzoyl peroxide is usually the best treatment for acne for the majority of people. It comes in a several different concentrations and is generally applied to the affected skin twice daily. It occasionally causes dry skin and irritation, but applying it less often then working up gradually to full dosage can get round this.
Oral Acne Treatments
Oral treatments like antibiotics, retinoids (Isotretinoin or Accutane), and hormone pills are used to treat moderate acne to severe acne. Isotretinoin is frequently used for treating severe cystic acne. It’s thought that it works by reducing the size and sebum production of the sebaceous glands. Women who are pregnant shouldn’t use this treatment, since isotretinoin could have serious side effects on pregnant women and their unborn children.
Availability of Treatments
Benzoyl peroxide is usually available for purchasing over-the-counter, and does not require a prescription. Topical retinoids, isotretinoin, topical antibiotics , oral antibiotics, and hormone pills will all usually need a prescription.
Herbal Acne Treatments
A lot of people choose herbal acne treatments, preferring to avoid drugs. When it comes to herbal acne treatments there are several to choose from:
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has anti-bacterial activity. It is usually used topically, and is diluted to a concentration of 5-15%.
Licorice Root Extract
This is also said to have anti-bacterial activity.
Olive Leaf Extract
The extract of leaves from the olive tree is believed to have antibacterial properties.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract has bioflavonoids plus antioxidants. These are believed to help in treating acne.