- Apply the treatments on a clean face.girl with towel image by Alexander Zhiltsov from Fotolia.com
Many over-the-counter acne treatments contain ingredients that reduce the size of pimples and prevent further breakouts. Some brands claim that their treatment will produce results overnight. Whether or not they do, formulas containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide do reduce redness and clear the skin. By comparing the formulas and active ingredients in these products, you can find the one that's best for your skin type. - The Advantage Acne Spot Treatment contains 2 percent salicylic acid, a common acne-fighting ingredient. The treatment, a clear gel, comes in a .75-ounce squeeze tube. When you apply the gel to your face, it dissolves the skin's surface oils and unclogs pores. According to Clean & Clear's website, 100 percent of participants in the Acne Spot Treatment clinical trials showed improvements the first day. The product won a Cosmopolitan Beauty Award in 2009.
- Neutrogena's On-The-Spot Acne treatment, which contains 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide, controls breakouts without drying out the skin. Many skin care products contain 10 percent benzoyl perioxide. Neutrogena claims that its formula produces the same results as a product with 10 percent benzoyl peroxide but with 70 percent less irritation. The treatment is also non-comedogenic and oil-free. The treatment, a white cream that comes in a 0.75-ounce tube, may bleach hair or fabrics. Exercise care when using it.
- Clearasil's Stayclear Vanishing Acne Treatment Cream contains 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, the highest concentration available without a dermatologist's prescription. The acne treatment cream also includes bentonite, an absorbent agent. The cream, safe for everyday use, comes in a 1-ounce tube. When you apply it, the cream vanishes. Clearasil sells a tinted version you can use wear during they day under your makeup.
- Burt's Bees is a purveyor of natural skin care products and cosmetics. Its Natural Acne Solutions Targeted Spot Treatment contains a .75 percent concentration of salicylic acid. The treatment reduces and improves the appearance of blemishes without irritating the skin. The salicylic acid in the formula is derived from willow bark extract. In combination with the salicylic acid, other ingredients, including tea tree, calendula, yarrow and parsley extracts, improve skin quality and reduce redness. Willow Bark Extract, which contains natural Beta Hydroxy acids, is a natural skin exfoliant.
The treatment is a liquid and comes in a .26 fluid ounce bottle. You can apply the formula twice a day. To use the product, apply the liquid on a cotton ball or clean fingers and lightly apply the formula on your face.
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