A smart acne care regimen can help you to have clear skin and look your best. Your acne care system should include a face wash, a treatment cream and a moisturizer. The best acne face washes are gentle and non-drying. Depending upon your needs and preferences, your facial cleanser can be medicated or not.
Types
Acne face washes can be a simple cleanser or may contain medicated ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Skin cleansers are available in bar, liquid, lotion or gel form. Benzoyl peroxide is an effective, over-the-counter, acne fighting ingredient that works by reducing the amount of P. acnes bacteria on the skin. Salicylic acid encourages cell turnover, and may help to keep pores clear, according to SkinCarePhysicians.com.
Function
Cleansers remove dirt, oil and debris from the skin. You should wash your face gently twice each day. Splash warm water on your face, then massage your skin cleanser into your skin with your fingertips, using light pressure. Rinse well with cool water. Avoid using harsh scrubs, exfoliating sponges or being rough with your skin, especially during breakouts, recommends Acne.org.
Time Frame
Acne treatment isn't something you can start and stop. If you have breakout-prone skin, you will need to continue using an acne face wash and treatment products to prevent future breakouts, reports Acne.org. Eight to 12 weeks of acne care may be required to see a substantial improvement in the condition of your skin, particularly if you have moderate, rather than mild acne, reports Acne.org.
Considerations
While a gentle, oil-free cleanser is an essential part of an acne care regimen, a cleanser alone, even if you opt for a medicated one, is not adequate to treat acne. Combine your acne face wash with a benzoyl peroxide treatment cream or gel and an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer. You can shave with your acne face wash or opt for a non-comedogenic shaving cream, recommends Acne.org.
Warning
Acne treatment may cause redness, flaking and irritation. Use a light, oil-free moisturizer after acne treatment to reduce these side effects. Severe scabbing, burning or irritation is not typical, and may be a sign of an allergy or sensitivity to the ingredients in your acne face wash and other skin care products. If your acne is severe, consult a dermatologist about prescription care options.
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