by Jessica Balanzategui

Created on: January 20, 2009

Acne is a complicated skin disease which is often misunderstood. It is usually not the result of surface dirt or a lack of appropriate hygiene procedures, as is often believed. Acne occurs when plugs form deep down in the pores. These plugs are made up of oil and dead skin. Sometimes, bacteria starts to form among the oil and dead skin which creates inflamed lesions the more unsightly and serious forms of acne such as pustules, cysts and nodules. In order to treat acne, this whole process must be controlled and corrected. Therefore, treatments must be appropriate to the type and severity of acne, so there is no single treatment which will be most effective for everyone. The following indicates which treatments are most effective for each type of acne.

Effective Treatments for Mild Acne

(Blackheads, whiteheads, and occasional red inflamed spots or pustules)

Aspirin and Jojoba Oil Mask

The aspirin mask is a cheap home-made treatment which can effectively control and clear mild acne. Aspirin contains beta hydroxy acid which helps to reduce excess oil and kill bacteria in the pores. Crush up about three-five aspirin tablets, accompanied by a drop of water, until it creates a fine paste. Add a few drops of jojoba oil, which can be purchased from pharmacies or health food stores. Jojoba oil helps to moisturize skin and helps clear out plugged pores. Leave the aspirin mask on your face for approximately 20 minutes, and then wash off. Repeat this process about twice a week.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid helps to hasten the exfoliation of dead skin cells. This helps to unplug clogged pores and reduce inflammation. Salicylic acid treatments can be purchased in supermarkets and pharmacies. Purchase a cleanser which contains a small amount of salicylic acid (about 0.5%). In addition, buy a cream or gel with a concentration of 0.5% to 2% salicylic acid to apply each morning and night. Salicylic acid can be quite drying so always have a moisturizer on hand, which reads "non-comedogenic" (meaning doesn't clog pores) on the label.

Clay and Tea Tree Oil for Oily, Mild Acne prone skin

Clay helps to absorb and clear excess oil on the skin, thus reducing clogging of the pores due to oil. Clay can also help to reduce inflammation and infection. Clay masks can be purchased from pharmacies and some supermarkets, and should be applied to the skin for about 20 minutes before being gently washed off. A facial cleanser containing clay will help to control excess oil and clogged pores. Clay products

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