Cleansers with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid help reduce oil build-up and help clear acne-causing blemishes, making a key part of an acne prevention routine.
Search for cleansers that are noncomedogenic (won’t clog your pores) and nonirritating. A moisturizer will also keep skin hydrated, especially during acne treatments that dry it out.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid, found in acne treatments and blackhead removal tools, is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) extracted from willow tree bark that’s known for unclogging pores and reducing oil while dissolving dead skin cells, according to dermatologist Annie Chiu, MD. Salicylic acid also offers anti-inflammatory benefits that help reduce mild acne outbreaks according to Cosmopolitan Magazine.
CeraVe’s award-winning formula with 2% salicylic acid for daily cleansing offers oil-free and noncomedogenic ingredients that won’t clog pores or overdry skin, yet still clear acne, reduce blackheads, unclog pores while supporting natural protective barrier function with ceramides and soothing with niacinamide.
Salicylic acid is an integral component of many shampoos for treating dandruff. If you suffer from BPH or have concerns about using salicylic acid on your scalp, consult with a dermatologist prior to doing so. Furthermore, topical salicylic acid should be avoided on warts that have hair growing from them or any that occur near genitalia or similar areas.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest it could reduce papules and pustules (inflamed acne lesions), although more large-scale studies are necessary. It is best to speak to a healthcare provider before using any essential oils such as tea tree oil.
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil is extracted by steaming its leaves, yielding an oil with terpinen-4-ol, an antimicrobial substance known to attack bacteria and viruses, providing effective treatment against acne, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, lice and more. Tea tree oil has long been used in skin care products as an antibacterial and fungal remedy; in recent years this compound has also proven useful against lice infestation.
Studies have demonstrated the use of tea tree oil in wound treatment can reduce inflammation and promote healing, as well as relieving itchy and scaly skin caused by contact dermatitis. Furthermore, tea tree oil may also be useful in treating ocular demodicosis – an eyelid condition related to Demodex mites – when combined with coconut or olive oil and applied twice daily on affected areas.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an increasingly popular skin care ingredient that uses exfoliation to unclog pores, boost collagen levels and promote cell turnover. Furthermore, this ingredient offers antibacterial protection and can even prevent signs of aging in skin cells.
Works by dissolving bonds connecting dead skin cells to living skin cells, which allows dead skin cells to shed off more easily, revealing newer, fresher skin underneath. Furthermore, it helps reduce oil and clogs pores which could otherwise lead to breakouts.
Glycolic acid can be found in cleansers and peel pads, as well as more concentrated solutions in medical-grade treatments such as chemical peels administered by dermatologists or estheticians.
No matter whether it’s OTC or medical-grade product, start slowly and build up your tolerance by using it intermittently at first. Before applying it to broken or sunburnt skin, be sure to pair the treatment with moisturizing and soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide for maximum benefit.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide has quickly become one of the hottest new skincare trends, but its effectiveness as an acne fighter has also been documented. Not only can it reduce inflammatory acne but it may also help with hyperpigmentation or sun damage reduction.
Niacinamide works by balancing your skin’s pH level and stopping oil production from increasing, making it a fantastic solution for those with sensitive skin. Plus, its non-irritating and gentle nature make it ideal for use on these delicate areas of the body.
Studies have demonstrated that 5 percent niacinamide can help lighten dark spots caused by acne and other conditions such as eczema. Furthermore, it can minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
Use niacinamide-containing products such as serums or masks to target hyperpigmentation, or for more intensive care try face masks with this ingredient. For optimal results use one daily as part of both morning and nightly routines – always patch-test any new products first on your forearm to make sure you do not experience an adverse reaction!
