Acne

OVER THE COUNTER PRODUCTS 

Benzoyl peroxide
- Not only does benzoyl peroxide kill bacteria on the surface of your skin, it also peels off the outer layer of skin and clears up the pore of any dead skin cells in the process, and hence, renewing your skin. Benzoyl peroxide is most effective in treating mild to moderate acne.  The product must still be used for a period of time even after the acne has cleared up, otherwise the bacteria might grow once more and the acne can return. 
- Benzoyl peroxide may cause irritation or redness of the skin. Do not over-use if you have sensitive skin.  
Salicylic acid
- Over-the-counter acne treating products should not contain more than 2% salicylic acid.  This active ingredient helps penetrate oily pores and increases the skin turnover rate, allowing skin to peel easier to prevent pores from clogging up.  This product is gentler on the skin, so its perfect for people with sensitive skin. Salicylic acid allows for less irritation or inflammation on the skin, which also causes the pores to become less noticeable.

Comparing Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid
- Both of these active ingredients work as peeling agents, but benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic which is why it works more aggressively and is harsher on the skin then salicylic acid.
- Comparatively, Salicylic acid is probably the choice for sensitive and dry skin types because of its gentler properties, but when used in excess, it may still cause dryness and inflammation along with irritation. Benzoyl Peroxide is good for oily skin since it works by eliminating the skin bacteria while drying up the blemishes quickly.

SELF - CARE MEASURES 

- Clean the skin gently twice a day. 
- Limit touching your skin. 
- Avoid the sun.