Understanding Acne : Part 2 – Acne Treatment Tips

When treating acne, it is easy to make mistakes or even make the acne worse, despite the best intentions. It could be what you are not doing right that is preventing you from seeing clearer skin. These do’s and don’ts can help you get the best results from your acne treatment.

The ultimate acne "treatment" - Photoshop, apply once and results are immediate. Unfortunately in reality, acne is annoyingly persistent. Acne lesions heal slowly, and when one begins to resolve, others seem to crop up.

1. Be Consistent With The Treatment and Do Not Give Up Too Soon

Despite many claims made by advertisements, acne does not clear up overnight! It may take up to six weeks to see improvement. Acne treatment is most effective when they are consistently used over a period of time. Not sticking to a regimen delays any potential improvements.

2. No Picking or Squeezing !

While you are waiting for treatment to work, it can be tempting to pick on the acne hoping to get rid of it. Acne picking prolongs healing time and increases the risk of scarring.

 Photo source : Adam Gault

Resists pimple popping. If done improperly, you could turn a blemish into a full blown crisis.

3. Follow Product Instructions
 

Over usage of topical medication can cause skin irritation. On the other hand, spot treatment fails to prevent breakouts. It is recommended to apply acne medication to the entire acne prone area, not just the blemishes.

4.  Maintenance Treatment

Many people make the mistake of stopping anti-acne treatment once they see clear skin. It is best to taper medication usage by using it less and less. To keep skin free from blemishes, do continue to apply topical acne medication even after the acne is under control.

5. Do Not Skip Moisturizer and Protect with Sunscreen

Even acne prone skin needs to be hydrated. The key is to apply an oil-free moisturizer. Some anti-acne products contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) that may cause the skin to be more vulnerable to ultraviolet rays. Choose a non-greasy sunscreen to protect against sun damage.
 

 Image source : Flickr

Lotions or gels are often a good choice because they feel non-greasy on acne prone skin.
 

6. Avoid Harsh Cleansers and Scrubs

Harsh cleansers and scrubbing your skin will not clear acne. They tend to irritate the skin and may worsen the acne.

 

7. Seek Early Treatment From A Doctor

Severe acne can lead to irreversible scarring if left untreated. It is time to make a clinic appointment if the acne starts taking a toll on self-esteem or if over-the-counter medications do not clear the skin. Prescription medication such as antibiotics or isotretinoin can effectively control moderate to severe acne.