By: Lindsey White
Getting rid of zits is a big challenge for many people, especially those who are teenagers. Many treatments to get rid of zits are expensive or have potentially damaging side effects. Although prevention works better than treatment, there are treatments that can also work.
In order to work on the prevention of zits, you need to keep your skin clean and healthy. Regular cleansing and following a healthy lifestyle are ways that you can help. Drink plenty of fluids that consist mainly of water to help keep your skin well hydrated and prevent the build up of toxins in the skin that can lead to the build up of zits.
Acetone and rubbing alcohol, when used in combination, can reduce the amount of oil on your skin and kill the bacteria that cause pimples. However, they will dry out your skin and so should really only be used on the pimple itself. If your skin gets dried out, the body will produce more oil to try to fix the problem. This in turn may lead to the formation of more pimples.
Salicylic acid is another treatment that reduces the amount of skin cells that are shed. Dead skin cells are known to clog pores, which leads to zits. The fewer skin cells you have, the fewer zits. This works very well for preventing blackheads, and will also reduce the number of whiteheads as well.
Benzoyl peroxide is a treatment that works to kill the bacteria that can cause pimples. It will not unclog your pores so if you use it alone it will not prevent blackheads, but it can have positive effects on blocked pores and can prevent the infections that cause blocked pores to turn blemishes.
If all else fails, you may need to see your doctor for prescription medication to help you with getting rid of zits. This should only be a last resort however, because the medications available, although usually very effective, can be expensive and have some very serious side effects.
