Author: Amy K. Sharp
Source: ezinearticles.com

There are so many products available on the market today that claim to be able to cure mild to moderate acne. You may have found that some of them work to cure acne whilst others have really shown no positive results.

There are a wide range of prescription medications, over the counter lotions and online suppliers which can deliver pleasing results to clear acne and prevent it from occurring again in the future.

Before looking into any type of treatment it is important to consider some of the ingredients that are used in the various formulas. Some of the ingredients found in a lot of products can actually be harmful to the skin, especially when some of the necessary chemicals are not balanced out with more natural ingredients.

I would like to discuss two of the main ingredients that are used in many prescription and non-prescription medications, and I would also like to highlight some of the advantages and disadvantages.

Benzoyl Peroxide

If you are not familiar with this ingredient, then it is understandable that you could be alarmed by the sound of its name alone. However, this is one of the main ingredients that you will find in most acne treatments, and was perhaps one of the first identifiable ingredients effectively used to clear acne.

To discuss some disadvantages first – yes it is a form of peroxide. This means it is important not to get it on your clothes and bed linen, as it will take the colour out. Some people have found that after using a product to clear acne containing Benzoyl Peroxide, their skin has become dry and flaky. Some have even complained that the areas of skin have become red and itchy.

It is important to realize that this ingredient comes in different strengths. 2.5% is usually the lowest dose and it can climb anywhere up to 20% in some products. For somebody with aggravated acne, they may choose the product with 20% purely because they think it will work faster or do a better job. This is not the case however.

If you are thinking of using a product containing Benzoyl Peroxide, then aim to begin with a treatment containing 5% or less, until you are sure how it works with your skin.

The Benefits of Benzoyl Peroxide

There is a reason why this ingredient is so popular to clear acne – because it is effective! Here are some of the reasons: