The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) estimates that between 40 and 50 million Americans suffer from acne, with 85 percent of teenagers developing the condition every year. Acne is usually caused by body oils (sebum) clogging oil ducts in the skin, cutting off the oxygen supply to the skin pores. Bacteria then invade the pores, causing the immune system to respond with inflamed and tender skin that forms into whiteheads, blackheads or pus-filled cysts, collectively referred to as "zits." Though according to the AAD there is no cure for acne, there are a variety of treatment options for acne-prone skin.
Oil-Free Skin Care Products
The AAD recommends avoiding any skin care products -- face creams, sunscreens and moisturizing lotions -- that contain oil, and choosing water-based products instead. Look for products labeled as "non-comedogenic" (will not cause whiteheads or blackheads) or "non-acnegenic" (will not cause pimples). These products won't add oil to already clogged pores, though the AAD recommends washing them -- and any makeup -- off your skin every night using warm water and a mild cleanser. MedlinePlus recommends gentle soaps such as Neutrogena or Dove.
Antibiotics and Topical Treatments
If your acne does not respond well to water-based products and nightly washing, you may have to ask your doctor or dermatologist for a prescription for either an oral or topical antibiotic, and/or a prescription for medicated gels, creams or lotions containing either sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or salicylic acid. Over-the-counter versions of these medications are available, but to get a stronger concentration of the active ingredients, you must get a prescription. Some dermatologists, according to the AAD, use a combination of oral antibiotics and topical prescription medications to treat moderate to severe cases of acne. Only a trained professional will know which treatment is appropriate for your acne and skin type. Don't expect overnight results, though, as these treatments may take up to two months to clear up your acne.
Hands Off
Acne care is as much about what not to do as it is about taking action, and dermatologists stress the importance of caring for your acne by simply not touching, popping or rubbing acne pimples. This may be the most important care option, since there is no cure for acne and it will usually go away by itself if not meddled with too much; of course, the above-mentioned care options can reduce healing time. AcneNet, an online acne resource from the AAD, warns that popping, rubbing or excessively washing "zits" can make the acne worse and lead to permanent scarring.
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