The essential methods of acne control are to keep pores from getting clogged, unclog infected pores, attack the bacteria causing the infection, and reduce the redness associated with acne. There are many preventive measures that you can take to reduce the chance of having an acne breakout in the first place.

Caring for your face with a gentle washing once or twice daily using just soap and water can make all the difference in keeping your pores clear. In addition to this, applying benzoyl peroxide will aid in drying out the skin as well as cleaning it even further. Benzoyl peroxide is the active ingredient in most over the counter facial wipes such as Oxy Pads. One of the truly nice things about using benzoyl peroxide is that it can be coupled with other acne treatments.

Using exfoliation has become a common technique in acne control. The removal of dead skin cells through exfoliation can help prevent them from clogging the pores of the skin, which in turn aids in preventing acne. The skin revealed by exfoliating is new, smooth, and much more healthy looking. It is important to know, however, that many of the agents found in exfoliating products can be very irritating to your skin. Before using them on your entire face, a small area of your skin should be tested to check for any negative reactions to these agents.

You'll find that many acne products perform a dual function. They both exfoliate your skin and contain anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory medicines. Not only will this clear your skin of the dead cells, but it will also fight the bacteria associated with acne outbreaks and helps to lessen the redness due to inflammation.

Checking your acne products will reveal sulfur and azelaic acid as commonly used ingredients. It is always best to test acne products on a small patch of skin prior to using it everywhere, just to check for any adverse reaction. If you find that salicylic acid listed as one of the ingredients in acne product, you should be careful; even though salicylic acid works well in keeping your pores unclogged, it has been found to be very irritating to facial skin.

A consultation with a dermatologist may be required for the most severe cases of acne. He or she can assist you with putting together a cleansing program for you to follow. A dermatologist may also use lasers in the treatment of acne as well as prescribe acne medication. If your dermatologist does prescribe medication to aid in fighting your acne, be aware that most acne medicines are quite powerful and can even be toxic. You need to warned of any possible side effects and be alert to them if they do occur.

Not everyone needs to see a dermatologist for their acne condition. For some people the over the counter treatments are just fine and work great. If they solve your acne problem you will avoid the expense and dangers of taking prescription acne medications into your body, and suffer possible negative side effects.