Acne Part 7

Acidic solutions

Mild acidic solutions are available in most pharmacies and health care stores. Theses acidic solutions like salicylic and glycolic acids can be effective in some cases. The mild acids peel of the old skin and open up the pores, thus removing the accumulated oil inside the skin pores. However, the effectiveness of these acids is variable and they do not work for the moderate to severe cases of acne. Drying up of the skin is a common problem with these peeling acids.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a chemical available in various concentrations as an over the counter medication. This agent inhibits the formation of black heads by acting as peeling agent. It has been shown to be as effective as benzyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. Salicylic acid is well tolerated and should be applied once or twice daily.

Sulfur Preparations

Sulfur preparations have been used to treat acne for centuries. Sulfur is combined with other over the counter acne medications. This agent has been shown to be effective in the treatment of acute acne lesions and acts as a keratolytic agent. It has a few unpleasant side effects including an unpleasant odor and skin discoloration. Today, sulfur medications are rarely used in the treatment of acne because of the availability of better and effective agents.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a decarboxylic acid is sometimes used to treat mild acne. How it works remains unknown but it appears to be as effective as salicylic acid and tretinoin in the treatment of mild to moderate acne.

Azelaic acid is a cream which is applied twice a day. Most individuals have no complaints but some may develop skin irritation and redness at the site of application. Because the agent also has the ability to decrease skin pigmentation, it should be used with caution in dark skinned individuals.

For the most part, all the above treatments are third rate and only help mild acne.