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Whether you are an adult or still in your teens, chances are that you have been troubled by acne before. With 8 out of 10 teenagers affected, this is a condition that unfortunately does affect many adults as well. Those who are affected understandably will want to improve their skin condition soonest possible with many seeking for the best over the counter acne solutions.

Symptoms and Causes

Acne vulgaris, or simply acne, is a skin disease that can create lesions on your skin. These lesions are commonly known as zits, spots or pimples and most common during adolescence. While the face and neck are the commonly affected areas, acne can also affect the chest, back and shoulders. These along with scars unfortunately lower one's self-esteem - a common psychological effect on a person who suffers from acne. Possible causes include the imbalance of hormonal levels, stress and hereditary. And contrary to some beliefs, exposure to dirt is not a cause of acne.

The Different Treatment Solutions

Among the many treatments available in the market are the topical bactericidal, topical and oral antibiotics, hormonal and biological treatments, topical and oral retinoid, phototherapy, photodynamic and laser treatment. Other more "natural" treatments include the use of aloe vera, azelaic acid, heat, ibuprofen, nicotinamide, tea tree oil, rofecoxib and zinc. Some of these treatments may require prescriptions from a doctor while others can be bought over the counter. Just like anything else, you are going to find treatments that expensive as well as affordable ones.

Using an over the counter acne product is certainly an option if you are after quick and affordable solutions that do not require a doctor's prescription. Having said this, discovering the appropriate products may be more challenging than you may initially expect. This is because you are likely to be confused by the myriad of advertisements, many of which claiming their products are able to help you improve your skin condition in a couple of weeks. The reality is that treatment a complex condition like acne typically requires a much longer period.

Finding the Best Over The Counter Acne Solutions

A feasible approach to determine the best over the counter acne solutions is by gathering and analyzing as much information as you can about the possible treatments.

For instance, you should know that many over the counter acne products are examples of topical bactericidal with antibacterial compounds that destroy acne bacteria. These products are often offered in the form or gel, cream, bar soaps or washes and typically contain benzoyl peroxide that are good for countering moderate to moderately severe acne. You use gel or creams by applying onto the pores of the affected areas, typically twice a day. With bar soaps or washes, the affected regions are soaped instead.

You will find that the strength or concentration of benzoyl peroxide can vary. Since it is possible for benzoyl peroxide to lead to dryness, local irritations or redness, it is probably safer to try a product with a mild concentration to start off with along with a suitable non-comedogenic moisturizer. Alternatively, go for solutions with salicylic acid, a milder chemical that works well for mild / moderate acne and sensitive skin.

By being mindful of the challenges and following the tips outlined earlier, you will be a step closer to ascertaining the best over the counter acne solutions for yourself.

There is no reason why you must continue to be shy about those pimples, zits or scars. Go to http://overthecounteracne.com/ to learn more about challenges and tips to find the best over the counter acne solutions and much more. Join the other people whom we have helped and visit us now to read our various articles about the best over the counter acne treatments including other non-prescription acne treatment solutions.