Some dermatologists advise that their patients avoid using Proactiv. “We do not recommend Proactiv because it uses harsh ingredients on your skin, which can eventually lead to early signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles,” says Evans.
Proactiv contains proven acne-fighting ingredients, so it definitely has good science on its side. The backbone of the Proactiv system is benzoyl peroxide. As far as the ingredients go, Proactiv certainly has the potential to be effective.
Treatments that work on top of the skin include Benzoyl Peroxide, salicylic acid, or a retinoid treatment. Dr. Reed says she recommends a variety of these treatments and a combination approach to treating acne can be particularly effective. Retinoids and salicylic acid focus more on the skin's surface.
If Proactiv is working, keep it up! There is no limit to the length of time you can use Proactiv. If you discontinue Proactiv, your blemishes are likely to return because the key causes of acne are hormonal and genetic. Teen acne lasts, on average, 5 to 7 years; adult acne can last 20-plus years.
AcneFree Clear Skin Treatments (benzoyl peroxide) Olay Fresh Effects Clear Skin Acne Solutions System (salicylic acid) Neutrogena Complete Acne Therapy System (benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid) La Roche-Posay Effaclar Acne System (benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid)
Salicylic acid can be helpful for all types of acne.” Salicylic acid is a go-to OTC ingredient for acne since it dissolves the dead skin cells in clogged pores, helping treat existing acne and prevent future breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).
Although dermatologists are equipped to help with many advanced skin issues and conditions, the most common reason one may visit a dermatologist is for acne. Dermatologists not only help treat acne scarring and administer acne treatments, but they can also screen for skin cancer or give overall skin care advice.
During the first 3 weeks you are using benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. If your skin problem has not improved within 4 to 6 weeks, check with your doctor.
They eventually sold off their Proactiv rights to focus fully on skincare with their company Rodan + Fields. Now they're coming full circle, announcing Thursday that Rodan + Fields is entering the teen acne market.
Dermatologists recommend CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for people with acne as it works to cleanse the skin and remove oil, without disrupting the skin's protective barrier. It won't clog pores or dry the skin out, and contains niacinamide and ceramides to help calm and moisturize irritated skin.
Nodular acne is characterized by hard, painful acne lesions deep under the skin. It often affects the face, chest, or back. Unlike regular pimples that often heal within a few days, acne nodules may last for weeks or months. They tend not to develop a white head and may remain as hard knots under the skin.
In some cases, a doctor or dermatologist may suggest a chemical peel or microdermabrasion to help improve the appearance of scarred areas. These milder treatments can be done right in the office. For serious scarring from previous bouts with acne, several types of treatment can help: Laser resurfacing.
A dermatologist can give you a more tailored and effective treatment regimen. There are also certain skin conditions that resemble acne, but aren't actually acne. So, you could be treating the skin issue incorrectly. A dermatologist will help with scarring from acne and any persistent acne that won't go away.
If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid alone should work well to clear out your pores. If your acne tends to be inflammatory, such as papules and pustules, opt for benzoyl peroxide to stop outbreaks at the source. For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it's less likely to cause irritation.
If you have severe acne, you'll need a dermatologist to help clear your skin. Acne products you can buy at the store won't clear severe acne. Give an acne treatment at least 4 weeks to work. Using a new acne product every few days may seem useful, but that approach can worsen acne.
As part of a complete early detection strategy, we recommend that you see a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you are at a higher risk of skin cancer, for a full-body, professional skin exam.
You should visit your dermatologist at least once a year for a skin examination. If you have issues between your yearly visit, such as a rash, suspicious growths or acne you should see your dermatologist immediately.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Premature Skin Aging:
Benzoyl peroxide creates free radicals and is known to cause premature skin aging, just like repeated sun exposure or persistent acne. Damage is determined by the concentration of benzoyl peroxide and the frequency and duration of use.
It is generally OK to use Benzoyl peroxide for a long time, as long as you do not have any serious side effects. When you stop using benzoyl peroxide you may find that acne comes back. You may want to keep using it to keep acne under control.
No acne product will clear up your blemishes and scars overnight. Such is the case with benzoyl peroxide. It can take up to six weeks for new products to take full effect. If you don't see any improvements after six weeks, consider seeing a dermatologist.
Cetaphil products are suitable for cleansing and moisturising acne-prone skin - they will help to remove dirt and oil, hydrate your skin and be respectful to and gentle on the natural skin barrier. All of the Cetaphil moisturisers are non-comedogenic, so they won't block your pores.