If you are one of the people who suffer with acne (Zits) then you are well aware of the distress and problems it causes; however, many effective treatments are available. Medical investigation and research is ongoing and making interesting discoveries; now, some of these skin conditions are gradually being conquered. Acne skin care products all fall into one of three main categories: <UL TYPE="square"> *Drugstore: Preventative treatment *Drugstore: Relief treatment *Prescription only: doctors or dermatologists prescribe special treatments </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; in many instances the user has never had a skin condition to worry about. Other acne skin care products, like skin cleansers for instance, are more specific about their job; they clean out the pores to help stop sebum or oil which can clog these areas. 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 can even be purchased over the Internet in addition to normal outlets. They work by reducing oil plus other contaminants from the skin and in the pores; this can reduce harmful bacteria and stop their chance of growth. There are specialized acne skin care products available over-the-counter, they do not require the need of a prescription. These formulations contain the chemical benzoyl peroxide and the naturally occurring salicylic acid; these include creams, cleansers and peels that slow down acne formation.

It is preferable when you first start using this type of product to keep the concentration of it low, around 5.5 percent is best; if a reaction occurs, a cleaner or cream containing alpha hydroxy acid should be safe. As with any type of zit cream, you may need to try a few acne skin care products until you find one that will suit your skin; if nothing you use is effective then speak to your dermatologist for advice. Products that your dermatologist or doctor will recommend will only be available on prescription, they may include a course of antibiotics or topical ointments.

Your dermatologist may suggest a minor surgical procedure to remove the contents of pustules; specialists never recommend the sufferer tries this themselves as it can cause permanent skin damage. Your doctor may even suggest a course of hormone therapy as a skin care treatment; hormone changes can be responsible for acne but hormone therapy can be very effective when used under prescription. Positive research means that a sufferer does not have to put up with this condition anymore.