Acne Creams

For pimples and other mild and moderate forms of acne, acne creams are a cheap and readily available means of curing outbreaks. There are dozens of different brands on the market, and they come in many forms, including creams, gels, and lotions. Each acne cream varies in strength, with a range of mild to strong listed on the box. In addition to over-the-counter acne creams, dermatologist can prescribe stronger prescription drugs effective for severe cases and persistent outbreaks.

Most effective acne creams come with a substance called benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is a bleaching agent that is effect at killing P. acnes, the main bacteria responsible for acne. The amount present in the cream will determine the strength of the medication. It’s always recommended to start with the mild and work to a stronger strength. Using high strength benzoyl peroxide to start may result in severe skin irritation and burns. Also, avoid getting anything containing benzoyl peroxide on your hair, as it will likely become bleached.

Some creams claim to heal acne lesions within 24 hours. These claims are false. Acne develops for several days before becoming visible, and is an active infection of the skin. Bacteria (P. acnes) and inflammation cannot be eliminated over night or even within a week. As a general rule, it takes approximately two months (8 weeks) for a cream to effectively treat outbreaks.

Avoid using multiple creams at one time. Choose a cream, and use it for the full eight weeks as directed. If use is discontinued early, the treatment will be ineffective. Be sure to use only the amount prescribed on the package. Using an excess amount cream will result in skin irritation and peeling, and may cause burns, in addition to the acne lesions. If burns do occur, discontinue use and seek the aid of a dermatologist.

Often, several acne creams may need to be used before an effective one is discovered. If, after two months, the outbreaks have failed to clear up, then use of a different cream will be needed. Continue trying creams one at a time until an effect one is discovered.

After prolonged use of a cream, it may become ineffective at treating the condition. If an acne cream that once worked fails to prevent further infections, one of two options will be present: either using the small cream at a stronger dose, or using a different cream at the same strength. If a stronger dose causes irritation, than try a different brand.

Some acne is too severe for over-the-counter creams. If the condition fails to improve after several months of applying topical creams, or becomes worse, developing into nodules and cysts, or spreading to other areas of the body, a prescription strength topical cream may be necessary. An appointment with a dermatologist becomes necessary at this point. They will be able to suggest more effective creams, as well as pain management, and tips on reducing the likelihood of scarring.