We have all used a topical acne remedy at one point in our life. A topical treatment is one that is applied to the skin or epidermis rather than taken orally (through the mouth) or intravenously (an injection).

During the teen years is typically when people’s skin starts to become very susceptible to pimples. Zits are formed when the pores of the skin become clogged with bacteria, dead skin, excessive oil and any other debris that those little pockets can gather. The face is one of the worst and predominantly affected areas of the skin.

How does an acne cream or lotion work to prevent and cure acne? We will take a look at a couple of ingredients that are found in almost all over the counter acne remedies. The two most common agents in any given acne treatment that we will explore are Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic acid.

Benzoyl Peroxide is used like a chemical peel in that it helps to clear the skin and pores of dead skin cells. Dead skin cells can mix with excess oil and become like glue that clogs pores and allows bacteria to grow. Benzoyl Peroxide is also an antimicrobial which means that it attacks and kills microbes or bacteria. This ingredient also acts like a disinfectant and will help keep future bacteria from moving into the clean pores. Benzoyl Peroxide also acts like bleach and in a more concentrated form can be found in many DIY teeth whitening kits.

Salicylic acid is a natural chemical that is found in the willow tree. This ingredient isn’t as harsh on the skin as Benzoyl Peroxide so people with sensitive skin usually prefer a product with this as the active ingredient. Salicylic acid works by making the skin cells shed more freely so that new skin cells can come to the surface. Think of our skin like an onion that is several layers thick. When the outer layer becomes old and gross we peel the layer off and reveal another clean and fresh layer.

Depending on how you’re sensitive your skin is will determine which product you prefer. It helps to test a small area of your skin to see which one is easier on your skin. Dryness and redness are side effects of both so it also might be a good idea to use a moisturizer after applying your favorite acne treatment.

It has been found that drinking the juice of green vegetables, and even eating them raw, can help with acne. To understand this more it is important to first look at the underlying causes of acne to put us in a position to help with its treatment.

It is an imbalance of hormones in the body that causes acne. As a result of this imbalance, the oil glands within the skin start to produce too much oil. This is due to the food and drink that we are putting into our bodies. Also, though this may seem rather obvious and simplistic, it is important to remember that large companies are making a lot of money out of making this seem more complicated than it needs to be.

One of the problems, in the treatment of acne, is the advertising from big pharmacy companies. They would have us believe that, in the majority of cases of acne, we needs lots of different medications.

Using natural remedies to heal the skin and body is worthwhile exploring rather than buying expensive creams, lotions and medications.

Restoring the underlying hormonal balance is the secret to how natural remedies treat the underlying cause of acne. You are also putting additional nutrients into the body. There is no problem with additives or chemicals which can cause further imbalances within the body.

Drinking the juice from green vegetables is the perfect way to kick start the healing process. Even in their raw state, green vegetables are excellent at detoxifying the body and removing impurities. Vegetables such as celery, cucumber, basil and oregano not only work particularly well but also have additional antiseptic properties. Ever since those early television adverts for the Jack Lalanne Juicer, many people have discovered some of these benefits of juicing.

In many health food stores you can also find probiotics. People have found these to actually work better than antibiotics. Not only can these natural remedies help heal your skin they can also make you feel healthier in the long run. Investing in a good juicer is all you need to do to get going.

Acne is a skin condition that plagues people of all ages. Although it is common among adolescents, it frequently remains through adulthood. The condition is characterized by a collection of oil, bacteria and dead cells trapped inside a skin pore.

People with this problem have sampled several acne remedies in their lifetime. From those prescribed by their dermatologist to those recommended by their friends, from chemically mixed ointments to natural remedies and from topically applied to those taken internally.

There may be a lot of acne remedies available in the market, but it is important to consult the expert when it comes to taking care of your skin. Relying on recommendation is dangerous as there is no two people have the same reaction to medication.

An expert’s recommendation should not be taken lightly. A dermatologist is equipped with the right know how to help you find the correct remedy that will work well with your physical chemistry. His recommendation is usually dependent on the extent of the skin condition in relation to your skin type. And the solution to the problem is usually a good combination of oral and topical medicines.

Never be enticed with remedies that are highly advertised, no matter what the testimonials say about it. Bear in mind that presentation is always just a part of a successful advertisement. Unless it is recommended by your dermatologist, do not take the word of the product’s celebrity endorsers.

Your willingness to spend as much money has nothing to do with the remedy as well. Again, how a medication will work on you will greatly depend on your condition and your body’s reaction to medication. So, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your problem will be solved by an expensive treatment.

If you want to go as natural as possible, you can ask your dermatologist to prescribe homemade acne remedies that would work well with your condition. The most common of these remedies are orange peels, cucumber leaves and aloe vera extracts. The preparation can be obtained from your dermatologist as well.

Acne remedies may be one of the most marketable products today. After all, who has not had this problem at least once in their lifetime? Successful treatment is not always dependent on the most expensive or saleable product in the market. Sometimes it is not even dependent on the regular trip to the dermatologist. Having a healthy lifestyle always has say in improving one’s skin.