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Sometimes an acne medication can be like a romantic relationship: It's supposed to be good for you, but it only makes things worse. In some cases, topical treatments make acne worse before it gets better. So, patience when battling acne is essential. However, if your blemishes linger on after eight weeks of treatment, they may be a sign that your acne-fighting regimen needs a makeover.
Topical Is Too Strong
When acne's stubborn nature leaves you embarrassed and frustrated, you may want to go after it with a vengeance. You hastily apply the strongest benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or retinol product you can find and think your acne will shudder and shrink away, leaving you with clear, beautiful skin. Think again. When acne medications are too strong, they can leave your skin more irritated, which is usually a one-way street to breakout city. Your best bet is to seek advice from a dermatologist.
Topical Is Just Wrong
Even though an acne product works wonders for your BFF, it could be your own skin's worst enemy. Finding the right topical treatment for your acne is like finding a cure for any other ailment -- it varies based on the cause and your symptoms. Acne can strike for different reasons, so a topical must address your specific triggers. For instance, salicylic acid can tackle skin cell turnover and clogged pores, but it won't do bupkis to kill propionibacterium acnes (or P. acnes). Again, book an appointment with your dermatologist right quick.
Topical Applied Too Quickly
When you're juggling a busy schedule with a bounty of blemishes, you may take a hurried approach to your acne regimen: The sooner you slap on your topical, the sooner you can dash. Slow your roll. If you've just cleansed your skin, you need to wait five to 15 minutes before applying an acne medication. When your skin is wet, it's more absorbent, so acne medication can easily irritate it -- and now you know where irritation leads. If you think about it, you can always find a few extra minutes in your day to keep zits at bay. For instance, after cleansing your skin, log on to your favorite social media, put coffee on to brew, touch up your nails or get your wardrobe ready to brave the day.
Skin and Sanity-Saving Solutions
Your skin is already a sensitive, bumpy mess thanks to acne; it doesn't need additional abuse. Treat your skin with a little TLC when you wash it. Don't scrub it with abrasive cleansers or pads so rough they could make your pots and pans sparkle. Apply a mild cleansing lotion, gently rub in a circular motion and pat your skin dry. Begin your treatment with lower-strength acne products. If a topical causes symptoms such as stinging, redness or excessive peeling, use it less often. Once you find a topical that works, remember to continue using it as part of your beauty regimen even after your skin clears. No topical will keep acne away forever, but it will help you put your best face forward.
