Over-the-Counter Acne Medications by:Martin Chambers

Acne is one of the most common skin problems and it can become a significant source of embarrassment and stress

. Thus, a lot of over-the-counter (OTC) medications were formulated to combat this skin ailment. What are these medications and are they as effective as they claim to be?

OTC Acne Medication that Contain Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide can be found in most facial cleansers and creams. The function of benzoyl peroxide is to kill the bacteria that can cause acne break-outs. Aside from this function, benzoyl peroxide also helps clear up the skin by unclogging the pores. Benzoyl peroxide also helps in the reduction of the inflammation caused by acne-causing bacteria; a person using a benzoyl peroxide-based product will usually notice a decrease in redness and puffiness around acne spots.

OTC Acne Medications that Contain Sulfur and Resorcinol

Two other components that can be found in over-the-counter acne medications are sulfur and resorcinol. These two components also work by unclogging the pores and ridding them of comedones. Comedones - which can be blackheads or whiteheads - and sebum clog up the hair follicle, thus, leading to acne break-outs. Sulfur and resorcinol works by preventing the accumulation of comedones and oil, so acne break-outs can be controlled.

OTC Acne Medications that Contain Salicylic Acid

As stated above, one of the causes of acne is the buildup of dead skin cells and the overproduction of skin oil. Salicylic acid also works by removing these buildups of dead skin cells and oils. However, it is different from other over-the-counter medications because it also corrects and helps maintain the normal shedding of skin cells. Once there is a normal cycle of dead skin cell shedding, there will be lesser pore blockages. Ultimately, acne breakouts are reduced.

OTC Acne Medications that Contain Alcohol and Acetone

The combination of alcohol and acetone works best for people whose skin type is oily. The acetone component of this acne medication is the one that reduces oil production, while the alcohol component works by killing the bacteria that causes acne breakouts. With the two combined, the skin will become clearer as the waste materials in the pores are removed.

Appropriate OTC Acne Medication for the Right Skin Type

Before you buy just about any kind of acne medications that can be purchased over the counter, you must first know your skin type. There are medications that work best for oily skin, but there are also those that work wonders for dry skin. Aside from this, you should also take into consideration the strength of the medication that you are going to use for your acne problem.

If you have a mild to moderate acne problem, then it is best if you use mild acne medications. You should only increase your dosage if the lower dosage does not work. Do not use strong medications prematurely or unnecessarily. Doing so can lead to more problems. Strong acne medications can make your skin oilier or drier, depending on your original skin condition. Furthermore, using the wrong acne medication can also lead to skin irritation and even more severe acne problems.

For more OTC acne medication reviews, download my complimentary report on curing acne. Further information can be found in the resource box.

About the author

Martin Chambers has put together a complimentary report on curing acne that will help you to get acne clear. To download this report instantly visit http://www.b5acnesecrets.com

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