All of us get zits and other acne at some point in our lives. If you want to grow up into an adult it is the price you must pay, a right of passage of sorts. Whether it is caused by puberty, stress, hormones, environment, lifestyle, or genetics, everyone is susceptible to the occasional breakout. Despite our best efforts to combat zits with good diet and good cleaning habits, sometimes a good acne cream just the best supplement to complete our acne treatment regimens. Most acne creams use the same ingredients with varying degrees of strength so ignore the pretty packaging and marketing hype and and ask yourself the following questions before you make your acne cream purchase.
What is your skin type?
Acne creams usually come in two forms: either as gels or as creams. Gel-based acne treatments are better for people with oily skin types. On the other hand, a cream-based acne product works better for dry skin types.
How sensitive is your skin?
Acne creams come in varying degrees of strength for good reason. For example, an acne cream that is too strong may actually cause the skin to overreact by producing even more oil to compensate for the dryness the acne cream causes. Make sure that if you have sensitive skin that you choose the milder acne creams. Many creams also contain benzoyl peroxide as the active zit fighting ingredient, which is known to cause allergic reactions in some people. If you are one of these skin types, be sure to avoid these products altogether. If you are unsure, be sure to try a small spot treatment initially before using the cream on the rest the zits on your body and face.
What are you trying to solve?
Most acne creams are defined as spot and blemish treatments, but there are many that are meant to be used as part of an acne prevention routine. Ask yourself want you are trying to solve and then choose the correct acne solution. Are you treating a bad breakout right now or are you taking precaution right now for a big night later? Know where you stand.
Now You Are Ready to Make Your Purchase
By asking yourself these three critical questions, you are empowering yourself to make a better decision for your situation the next time you purchase an acne cream.
