November 2nd, 2009

Author: MaryAnn Eastman
Source: ezinearticles.com

You want to get rid of acne, and you want to get rid of it fast. The solution? Over-the-counter topical solutions!

It seems that people don’t think that they work. They do actually, and they work quite well. What people fail to do, is use it correctly. All the treatments available work best if you practice a gentle cleansing routine before you apply any solutions, use the solution as directed, and be consistent.

Aim for a twice a day skin care routine. Remember be gentle with your skin. Many people think that acne is caused by dirty skin, so therefore vigorous washing will clear it up. This is just not so. Washing itself does not clear breakouts since dirt does not cause acne, so there is absolutely no need to scrub. Use only your bare hands to wash. Do not use washcloths. Washcloths can be both irritating to the skin and harbor bacteria which can make acne much worse than it is. Washing is for the purpose of removing dirt and debris to prep the skin for treatment. It is not a method for getting rid of acne fast.

After you have rinsed and patted dry, use an clean applicator to apply acne treating cream to your face, or apply with very clean fingers. When you apply an acne cream, apply it on the entire area where the acne is apparent, not just on the pimples. Applying the cream on just the pimples will make the pimples go away, but the untreated surrounding areas will still be just as susceptible to acne breakouts. Gently rub the acne treating cream or lotion on your entire face very slowly and smoothly, until it is completely absorbed into the skin.

Prepping the face first is important, applying the medication as directed is also just as important, however, consistency is paramount. It is not much point in putting it on one day then forgetting it the next. For acne medication to work effectively, it has to be applied consistently. Follow the instruction for the number of times a day to apply it and stick with the recommendations

What brand name you choose for over-the-counter topical solutions is entirely based on preference. They come in various strengths and modes of application, everything from ointments to wipes. Generally they all contain one of two active ingredients; Either benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid.

Both of these give the same result, but have a different action. Bensoyl Peroxide works by reducing acne with anti- inflammatory and anti-bacteria agents. Salicylic Acid dries tissue out, ultimately reducing the acne. A word of warning! Don’t use the two combined. It could cause a chemical reaction on your skin and make it worse. Use them alternately, yes, but not together. Remember though, these are chemicals that you are applying on your face. Sometimes you may find that even if you don’t get a reaction, you will get a sensation of tingling or stinging. This is just a normal function of the chemicals in the cream.

Getting rid of acne fast is easy. Just keep to a routine. Wash correctly, apply medicated over-the-counter solutions as directed and be consistent. The acne will disappear in no time.

Find out how you can get rid of your acne through my easy to follow course. Find out more on how to get rid of acne. Mary-Ann Eastman runs a site on rid acne fast.

Tags: , , , ,

You must be logged in to post a comment.