Acne Medication Reviews

Acne is not fully comprehended, but we do know a portion of the biology behind it. The primary culprit is the excess secretion of an oily substance called sebum whose role is to keep skin and hair lubricated and supple. During the teenage period, the body often creates excess measures of sebum. The sebum blends with naturally occurring dead skin cells to block hair follicles which precludes the sebum from breaking loose.

The resulting block of oil below the surface of the skin provides an pure surrounding for bacteria. The bacteria multiply and the skin area becomes red and inflamed resulting in what is commonly called a pimple.

The excess secretion of sebum is from the male hormone testosterone. Testosterone is found in both genders, but during early teen years, the body changes how it responds to the presence of testosterone. It is this abnormal reaction, characteristically appearing during adolescence, that stimulates the skin (especially on the face and upper torso) to become too oily. By early adulthood, the body usually adjusts to testosterone and acne disappears.

Acne seems to be partly hereditary, but we don't realize exactly why some people get it and some do not. some of the factors which seem to exacerbate acne conditions include stress, diet, skin irritation, certain treatments, and hormonal rhythms such as menstrual cycles.

Dietary links seem to be mostly connected to skim milk derivitives. Most people connect staples like chocolate and fast food with pimples, but there is no statistical evidence that this type of food causes or exacerbates acne.

Because of the large number of products available for dealing with acne, it can be difficult to decide how to differentiate them.  So a review of the available acne medication products can be more a function of your particular acne symptoms.

Ingredients you may see in acne medications include resorcinol and sulphur. Resorcinol causes the top layer of skin to peel -- including the dead skin cells which clog the pores. It is often combined with sulphur. It is not known how sulphur affects acne conditions, but it has been used effectively for more than 50 years.