Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages.
The following are common types of blemishes associated with acne and their commonly-used terms:
- closed comedones, or whiteheads
- open comedones, or blackheads
- pustules, or pimples
- papules
- cysts
- nodules
The following ingredients in OTC treatments can help break down whiteheads and blackheads:
- benzoyl peroxide
- salicylic acid
- azelaic acid
- adapalene
Several home remedies and lifestyle changes also can help reduce most minor-to-mild forms of noninflammatory acne. These include:
- washing with lukewarm water and soap twice daily
- applying non-abrasive cleansers
- staying hydrated
- avoiding over-washing or irritating the skin
- limiting exposure to the sun
