Although your thoughts about the term blemish may focus on symptoms of acne, other skin conditions also qualify. In addition to blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery also considers age spots and rosacea as skin blemishes. While surgery is an option in some cases, it is typically an option of last resort. Eliminating or hiding skin blemishes may be a better idea, but is a process that takes time, effort and the right mix of skin products.
Types
Products for blemishes may include a variety of ingredients but generally fall within a few major types. Product types the University of Maryland Medical Center describes include cleansers, topical applications and camouflaging cosmetics. Products within these general categories include exfoliants such as facial scrubs and masks, ointments, creams and lotions. In addition, the American Academy of Dermatology identifies oral medications, such as contraceptives and corticosteroids as products for skin blemishes.
Ingredients
A look at different types of products often reveals similar ingredients. Over-the-counter products used to treat acne typically include mild acids, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, lactic acid or resorcinol. For over-the-counter rosacea treatments, azelaic acid, or an antibiotic called metronidazole are common ingredients. Skin bleaching products used for age spots often include hydroquinone, deoxyarbutin, glycolic acid or kojic acid.
A common prescription ingredient for all types of blemishes are vitamin A derivatives called retinoids, the most common of which are tretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene. In addition, doctors frequently prescribe topical acne products that include benzoyl peroxide combined with antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin. Prescriptions for rosacea blemishes can include sodium sulfacetamide or products containing sulfur. Age-spot products often include stronger versions of over-the-counter ingredients or a mild steroid such as hydrocortisone.
Function
The general function of skin products for blemishes, whether over-the-counter or prescription, is to dry your skin, kill bacteria and remove dead skin cells that can clog pores, according to MayoClinic.com. An exception to this is age-spot products where the ingredients function as a bleaching agent to lighten the skin and reduce or eliminate spots.
Time Frame
Treating blemishes is a long-term process. Depending on the severity of your skin condition, the American Academy of Dermatologists estimates it can take four to eight weeks to notice results and for continued success, treatment must be an ongoing process. The reason for this, says the ADA, is that in addition to treating blemishes already present, products also work to prevent new breakouts and this takes time.
Considerations
Talk to your doctor before making a decision to use skin blemish products. The products you use to treat blemishes generally contain chemicals that can have side effects or cause allergic reactions. Also, it can take time for your skin to adjust to using blemish products, especially prescription types, says MayoClinic.com. Side effects such as burning, stinging, redness and peeling skin are common, but you can avoid some of these effects by starting out using less than a recommended amount and gradually increasing the application as your skin adjusts.
References
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: What Is It? A Blemish or a Beauty Mark?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Wrinkles and Blemishes - Treatment
- American Academy of Dermatology: Guidelines of Care for Acne Vulgaris Management
- MayoClinic.com: Acne -- Treatments and Drugs
- Skin Care Physicians: Rosacea Net -- Rosacea Treatment
- MayoClinic.com: Age Spots (Liver Spots)
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