Teenage years are challenging for both parents and teenagers alike. As a parent, you want your child to look and feel their best. Acne can be a significant source of stress for teenagers, and the right acne treatment can be a game-changer. However, acne treatments can be expensive, and finding the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the best acne treatments and how to save money on them.

Learn the Basics

Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This creates an environment in which bacteria can grow, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Hormonal changes, and certain medications, can all contribute to the development of acne.

The first step in treating acne is to clean the face and apply a topical cream. There are several chemicals available, including Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Adapalene, and Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).

Benzoyl Peroxide is a popular topical medication for treating acne. It works by reducing the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface, thereby minimizing inflammation. It also helps to unclog pores and prevent new breakouts. Salicylic Acid helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation, but it does not kill bacteria. Adapalene is a topical retinoid that works by binding to specific receptors in the skin cells to regulate the growth and differentiation of skin cells. This prevents the formation of new comedones and reduces inflammation, ultimately minimizing the severity of acne breakouts and promoting faster healing of existing lesions. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) work by exfoliating the top layer of the skin to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This can help reduce the appearance of acne and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.

Do Not Buy Expensive Products

When it comes to acne treatment, it’s important to remember that more expensive doesn’t always mean better. In fact, many over-the-counter acne treatments contain the same active ingredients as their more expensive counterparts. The only difference between these products is often the packaging and marketing.

It’s also important to note that you don’t need to buy a multi-step acne treatment system. Many of these systems include a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. While these products may work for some people, they are not necessary for everyone. In fact, using too many products can actually make your acne worse. Instead, stick to the basics: a gentle cleanser and a topical acne treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Value Facial Cleansers

Here are several value facial cleansers available that contain the active ingredients needed to treat acne:

PanOxyl Benzoyl Peroxide Wash: a maximum strength antimicrobial foaming wash that contains 10% benzoyl peroxide. It is tough enough to battle even the worst breakout and can be used on both your face and body. The highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide available without a prescription. It effectively penetrates pores killing the bacteria that cause acne and clears existing acne blemishes while preventing new blemishes from forming.

CeraVe SA Cleanser with Salicylic Acid: a remarkable cleansing product that is infused with barrier-restoring components like ceramides. This salicylic acid-based cleanser offers gentle yet effective exfoliation without utilizing harsh microbeads that may cause irritation or scratch the skin. Notably, this cleanser is versatile and can be applied on the face and body, particularly on acne-prone skin. Moreover, it not only exfoliates the skin but also helps to soothe and smoothen dry and rough skin.

Value Topical Treatments

Here are several value topical treatments available that contain the active ingredients needed to treat acne:

AcneFree Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide: a maximum strength spot treatment that contains 10% benzoyl peroxide to quickly and effectively remove acne and prevent future acne spots from recurring. This formula uses micronized benzoyl peroxide, a dermatologist-recommended ingredient, that allows for better penetration into pores vs. traditional benzoyl peroxide.

FAB Pharma White Clay Acne Treatment Pads 2% Salicylic Acid: an excellent daily solution for preventing acne breakouts. These pads are free from alcohol and use the maximum strength of salicylic acid to minimize acne and prevent new blemishes from appearing without leaving the skin feeling stripped or dry. This product is developed by First Aid Beauty and is readily accessible at Sephora, Ulta, and Dermstore.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment: potent acne treatment recommended by dermatologists. This fragrance-free and oil-free formula is enriched with adapalene gel, a retinoid that comes highly recommended by dermatologists for its efficacy in preventing and clearing acne blemishes such as clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads. The product is developed by La Roche-Posay and can be conveniently purchased at Amazon and Target.

Time to Visit a Doctor

If your child’s acne is persistent and not responding to over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to visit a doctor. A doctor can prescribe stronger topical creams or oral antibiotics if needed. Popular topical creams include Clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide, which helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.

It is essential to note that oral antibiotics should only be used as a last resort, as they can have side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance. It is crucial to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and complete the entire course of treatment.

In addition to following these steps, there are several other things you can do to help your child manage their acne. Encourage them to:

Wash their face twice a day with a gentle cleanser

• Avoid touching their face
• Use oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup, and skincare products
• Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

To sum up, acne treatment doesn’t need to be a costly affair. It’s best to stick to the basics and opt for value products that contain the necessary active ingredients for treating acne. In case of persistent acne, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Additionally, it’s important to encourage your child to adopt healthy skin care habits and lifestyle choices. By following these steps, your child can regain their confidence and feel comfortable in their own skin.