Acne, sometimes known as Zits, is a menace to people who suffer from this condition; but there are now many treatments available which can help the condition so it is more bearable. Medical investigation and research is ongoing and making interesting discoveries; gradually more effective topical treatments are being discovered and made available. Acne skin care products all fall into one of three main categories: <UL TYPE="square"> *Internet or Drugstore: Treatment that helps prevents condition *Over-the-counter: Treatment *Prescription only: From a doctor or dermatologist for more serious conditions </UL

Preventative products are formulated to treat the skin in an effort to control the occurrence of acne; this sector deals with skin creams, lotions and cleansers that can help stop the problem. Many people these days use products like this to maintain their skin; often used by those who want to prevent future skin problems from occurring. Some of these products are designed to act like an acne skin care product and act against the causes of this complaint; they ensure the facial pores (and other areas) remain free of oil. When the pores become clogged with this oil, bacteria which can cause the problem begin to grow.

This type of skin care treatment also includes those which exfoliate such as skin peels; most are readily available over the counter at drug stores or even online. The peels clean the skin by removing all surface pollution and dead skin cells which can block the pores. Many other acne skin care products have become available over the counter and on the internet; they don't usually require a prescription. These formulations contain the chemical benzoyl peroxide and the naturally occurring salicylic acid; they work by removing the excess oil from the skin and halt the growth of acne.

Although benzoyl peroxide works well, reactions can happen so it is suggested that any skin care product containing this should not have more than 5.5 percent of the active ingredient; should a reaction occur, products containing alpha hydroxy acid are generally safer. It might just be a case of trial and error to find an acne skin care product that works; however, if nothing you try seems to work, you should contact a dermatologist. There are benefits of seeing your doctor or dermatologist, they can prescribe you with a prescription for treatments not available over the counter, for example a course of antibiotics.

Your doctor can recommend that in order to extract the contents of the pustules that a small surgical procedure could be carried out; however, sufferers are warned never to attempt this as it could lead to serious skin problems. Your doctor may even suggest a course of hormone therapy as a skin care treatment; studies show that hormone based skin care treatments often prove effective. Positive research means that a sufferer does not have to put up with this condition anymore.