Acne is a skin condition that affects children, teens, and adults. This annoying and embarrassing skin condition occurs when your skin produces too much sebum, which is the natural oil that helps to keep your skin protected and moisturized. Too much sebum clogs the pores, trapping dead skin cells that lead to the formation of acne. While there are plenty of treatments for acne available, hydrogen peroxide is an inexpensive, effective way to reduce acne on your skin.
How Does it Work?
When hydrogen peroxide is applied to your skin, it loses an extra oxygen atom. This process is known as oxidation, and it creates an unfavorable environment for bacteria that can cause acne to occur. When the bacteria is reduced or eliminated, it helps cleanse the skin and give it a chance to heal. The ingredient peroxide is known to be a peeling agent that can exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells to reveal the newer, clearer skin underneath. Hydrogen peroxide also dries out excess oil, helping to prevent the possibility of future acne breakouts.
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Acne
You can find hydrogen peroxide at any drugstore or other retailers. It’s easy to use and can be quite effective at helping with acne if you apply it properly. First, you’ll need to wash your face with a gentle cleanser, and then pat it dry. Do not rub your face or it could cause irritation. Next, saturate a cotton ball or cotton pad with hydrogen peroxide and gently dab it onto the affected areas of the skin. Leave the solution on for around five minutes. If you notice any irritation before five minutes have passed, you should remove it immediately.
After the hydrogen peroxide has set, rinse your face thoroughly with cold water. Pat your face dry again and apply a gentle moisturizer that is non-comedogenic. Repeat this process two to three times per week until you notice that the acne has started to improve. For people with dry skin, you should only repeat the treatment one or two times per week at most. You can also combine hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to create a paste that works well as a targeted spot treatment. Follow the same steps above until you see your acne improve.
If you are concerned about acne or other skin conditions, visit Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, GA or call us to schedule an appointment today.
