Aside from the hormones and stress associated with it, there are two basic causes of acne. Following are details about the best acne product for each basic cause...
Acne Cause #1: Clogged, Plugged Pores This is primary cause of the four acne stages: blackhead, whitehead, pimple, and nodule.
When sebum (the skin's natural oil) gets PARTIALLY TRAPPED at a pore's opening, comes into contact with air, and oxidizes, the result is a blackhead?which is black since oxidized oil turns dark, aided by the skin's melanin (pigmentation).
When sebum is FULLY TRAPPED, meaning the pore is fully plugged, a whitehead results.
When the plug grows, the pore wall will rupture, allowing more sebum and dead skin cells to build up, producing a pimple, which can either be a papule (conical eruption) or pustule (circumscribed eruption with an inflamed base, often with pus).
When the pore is clogged deeper and does not erupt at the surface of the skin, the result is a boil-like lesion called a nodule.
Acne Cure #1: Topical Retinoids Since this cause has little to do with inadequate cleaning, washing a dozen times a day will not prevent acne. Some of the best acne fighting substances are topical retinoids.
Prescribed for mild to moderately severe acne, topical retinoids are derived from Vitamin A, and work to unplug pores. An added benefit is that retinoids diminish fine lines and wrinkles as well.
Caution: Topical retinoids can cause irritation and an increased sensitivity to the sun. Use under the guidance of a dermatologist for safer, better results.
Acne Cause #2: Abnormal Skin Cell and Sebum Production When new skin cells grow and sebum is produced at a normal rate, and dead skin cells are regularly shed, it is unlikely that acne will progress.
The reverse is also true: If dead skin cells accumulate and are trapped by the pores along with bacteria, infection follows, and the body's defense mechanism sends blood rushing to the area causing inflammation.
Acne Cure #2: Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid Aside from having antibacterial properties, benzoyl peroxide has a powerful drying effect, making it popular as an acne product for those with oily skin or those who want their pimples dried fast.
Drying encourages the skin to shed dead cells. It decreases the likelihood that infection will develop. On the other hand, salicylic acid corrects abnormal skin shedding.
Caution: These substances can cause the skin to become red and peel, especially when first used. Moreover, prolonged use can lead to premature aging since their drying properties make the skin prone to lines and wrinkles.
Alternative Acne Product There are low concentrations of both retinoids and drying agents (e.g., benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid) that can be options for those with sensitive skin. However, if the signs of intolerance continue (i.e., irritation, redness, itching), switch to a gentler acne product, such as topical niacinamide (e.g., Acnessential). Topical niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, which targets sebum production as well as inflammation in acne suffers. It has no side effects.
