Tretinoin cream, the generic form of Retina-A, is a prescription treatment, primarily for acne vulgaris, better known as acne. It is essentially retinoic acid, a form of vitamin A, that is found to be effective in clearing acne. The active ingredient is tretinoin itself, which is one of the many retinoids. The cream is available in different strengths (such as 0.1% and 0.05%) but the commonly prescribed strength of tretinoin cream is 0.025%. The number indicates the concentration of tretinoin in the cream. This means every gram of the cream has 0.025% or 0.25 mg of tretinoin.

Apart from acne, tretinoin cream can also be used to reduce wrinkles on the face. Applying the cream regularly can make the skin look better, younger, and smoother. Its anti-aging formula can certainly help take years off your skin. Sun-damaged skin (resulting from chronic UV exposure) that is typically marked by pigmented spots can also be treated with this tretinoin cream. Its off-label use is extended to treating skin problems like actinic keratosis, ichthyosis, melasma, keloids, and keratosis follicularis.

Mechanism of Action
Application of tretinoin cream promotes renewal of healthy skin cells, in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. The vitamin A derivative essentially has a positive impact on the growth of skin cells that replace old skin cells. The new skin cells formed help heal pimples as well as prevents formation of new pimples and blackheads. The synthesis of healthy cells also helps in getting rid of acne scars and other blemishes located on the outer skin.

Side Effects
In the initial weeks, treatment with tretinoin cream can be slightly uncomfortable. For instance, the cream may sting or cause a burning sensation at the application site. This is one of the most common side effects, particularly among first-time users. However, this uncomfortable feeling does not last long and soon recedes.

The application site may also become unusually red and even inflamed. Itchiness and dryness at the site of application is also often reported. Sensitivity to sunlight is another side effect that may occur after application. So, you may have to minimize sun exposure during treatment. Some may actually notice exacerbation of acne symptoms. However, this should not deter from using the cream daily, as these side effects last for a short duration only. But in case these side effects do not subside, immediately contact your health care provider. You may be advised to reduce the frequency of use to mitigate the side effects.

Usage
For maximum effectiveness, the cream should be used as directed by your health care provider.

• One of the keys to maximize its benefits is to wash the face with a mild cleanser or soap before application. This is because our face is often full of dirt and oil, which needs to be removed before applying the cream. Of course, before starting this skincare regimen, make sure your hands are also clean.
• After washing your face, use a clean towel to dry the affected skin. Wait for about 15-30 minutes before beginning your skincare routine with tretinoin. This is because using it on moist skin can actually peel the skin visibly and further aggravate the problem. So, do not be in a hurry to apply the cream after you pat dry your face.
• The cream is applied just before retiring to bed. Experts often advice to avoid its application during the day because when exposed to UV rays, the active ingredient tretinoin may breakdown, which is a cause for concern.
• Take pea-size portion of the cream on your fingertips and spread it evenly on the facial skin. Make sure you use it in right amounts, as excessive application can irritate the skin.

Healing Time
Keep in mind that tretinoin cream is not a magic wand that will cure your acne immediately. When used as directed, one may notice substantial improvement in 8 to 12 weeks time. Keep in mind that the improvement is gradual, so do not discontinue its usage just because you didn’t notice your acne fading away in the first few weeks.

Remember, when used correctly, tretinoin cream can certainly work for the purpose it has been formulated for. However, since it is a prescription-strength topical medication, make sure you consult a dermatologist before using it.

For example, if you have sensitive skin, then it is better to select a mild natural cleanser, and avoid using harsh soaps. If you have oily skin, then a gel or water-based formula works well. For those with dry skin, it is advisable to go for a cream which provides moisture to the skin along with unclogging the pores. Let’s look at some of the treatments listed below.

OTC Creams/Ointments/Gels

• DDF BP Gel 5% with Tea Tree Oil comes with a natural ingredient like tea tree oil, and benzoyl peroxide, which helps to remove blemishes and fight new breakouts.
• DermaClear helps in removing pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads, by clearing up the pores.
• Johnson & Johnson Persa Gel has been used since a long time for breakouts. It is excellent for normal and sensitive skin.

OTC Overnight Products

• Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment contains just 2.5% benzoyl peroxide which prevents and minimizes blemishes.
• Clean & Clear Maximum Strength Overnight Acne Patches are tiny patches which help to control breakouts.
• Acne Spot Dry is a very effective overnight skin care product, which helps to reasonably shrink the breakouts.

Scrubs

• Stridex Conditioning Acne Scrub is a scrub which is mixed with the convenience of a pad. You just need to rub it on the affected region, and it will help to exfoliate the skin.
• You can also make a homemade scrub with plain yogurt and fine rice powder, and use it for scrubbing your face.

Face Masks

• Astara Blue Flame Purification Mask works great for getting rid of pimples overnight and reducing blemishes. It contains a gentle scent of lavender and is to be dabbed onto the affected areas.
• Fuller’s earth with rose water is another homemade mask that works best for oily skin.
• Neutrogena Pore Refining Cooling Gel Mask helps to clear up the pores, deep-cleanse the skin, and control breakouts.

Natural Treatments

• Tea tree oil is one of the most powerful essential oils and the best natural cure for acne. To use it for treating pimples, mix it with jojoba oil in a 3:10 proportion, and apply on the affected area.
• Lavender oil is another alternative treatment. It also has a pleasing smell that helps to control stress, and thus, prevent worsening of the condition.
• Carrot juice, when had everyday, helps to clear up acne and reduce blemishes.

Natural Scar Treatments

• Rosehip oil is one of the most beneficial oils for scar removal. Mix it with jojoba oil in a 4:10 proportion, and apply on the blemishes.
• Aloe vera gel from the plant or from a bottle can also be used to clear up blemishes.
• Sandalwood powder with rose water makes a wonderful pack, that helps to remove scars that are left behind.

Remember, a regular cleansing regime and a balanced diet are equally important to get rid of acne. For severe cases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Given below are the reviews for a few products useful for the treatment of acne scars.

Best Products to Choose From

BIOSKINFORTE By BioSkinCare
BIOSKINFORTE acne treatment works by treating the root cause of this problem, thereby ensuring it does not reappear. Moreover, this 7-in-1 cream is known to be the best non-surgical treatment for scar removal. It removes the damaged collagen and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation spots, as well as accelerates skin regeneration. It also nourishes the skin, and leaves it soft and polished.

Amolis Acne Scar Remover
With powerful rejuvenation properties, this product helps clearing the scars completely. This natural product contains pure essential oils, and is free from any chemicals and drugs. It treats several types of scars, accelerates the growth of new cells, and restores skin elasticity. If you are searching for a natural product for clearing blemishes, you can opt for this doctor-recommended scar-remover.

Scar Treatment Kit by Zenmed
Scar Treatment Kit from Zenmed, which consists of Skin Eraser and Renewing MicroDermabrasion Complex is next one you can consider using. This doctor-formulated dual system helps to fade the scars, diminish the fine lines, and leaves your skin young and fresh. This is one of the top-rated products, and helps to deal with all post-acne problems like scars, blemishes, discoloration, etc.

M2 HP Skin Refinish from MCK Laboratories
Apart from diminishing the scars, this product refinishes your skin, and makes it brighter and fairer. The wrinkles and bumps will also be reduced with regular use of this cream. It is also a perfect product to be used right from the stage of acne breakouts, as it will clean them, and leave no scars behind.

You can also consult a dermatologist to know the best lotions and creams suitable for your skin type. In case you notice an increase in the scars, or if the problem persists, discontinue the use of that product, and consult your dermatologist. Keep your skin clean, and follow a daily skincare routine to maintain an acne-free and scar-free skin

What Causes Acne
Acne can occur due to many reasons. Read the following causes for a better understanding.

• Excessive oil in skin: If the skin secretes excess oil, then it is more prone to acne.
• Hormones: Acne generally begins at puberty due to various hormonal changes that affect the oil secretion of glands.
• Diet: Sometimes, the foods we eat may also cause an outbreak of acne.
• Medication: Some medicines may cause an allergic reaction which can lead to acne.
• Stress: Stress has also been known to cause acne due to enlargement of the oil-secreting glands.

Treatment of Acne
Controlling acne is an easy process. However, you must be fully devoted to it, as it is not a one-time treatment. Given below are some ingredients that you must look out for in cleansers for acne-prone skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the best options for acne treatment. It increases the amount of oxygen in the open pores and thus prevents the incidence of dirt and bacteria getting clogged in them. Also, benzoyl peroxide rids the skin of dried and dead skin cells, thus keeping the skin clean and free from pore blockage. Most anti-acne products have benzoyl peroxide as an ingredient as it is probably the most effective. The use of acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide must be continued even after the acne has cleared, to prevent recurrence. Some side effects of using an acne cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide could be dryness and flaky skin. Not to worry as these are very mild effects and do not affect the treatment.

Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is another effective anti-acne ingredient that is present in many over-the-counter products for acne treatment. Salicylic acid is an excellent exfoliator. It effectively exfoliates all the dead and dry skin cells. Thus, the follicles remain free and there is no clogging of debris in the pores. Avoid using any other product containing salicylic acid if you’re using a good face cleanser that already has it. This could make your skin excessively dry. Some other side effects of salicylic acid could be mild stinging or burning. If this continues for long and gets worse progressively, visit a dermatologist.

Green Tea
Yes, green tea is also an effective and one of the best natural acne cures. You must be wondering how to use green tea as a cleanser. All you have to do is dip them in water. Once they’re completely wet, rub the tea bags all over your face and neck, wherever you have acne. Let your face dry. That’s it! Do this on a regular basis and you’ll have clear and refreshed, acne-free skin. The best part about this gentle treatment is that since it is completely natural, it does not have any harmful side effects. It has a lovely fragrance which will keep you refreshed for long!

Lavender
Lavender is another natural cleanser. It contains anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-toxic properties. Needless to say, this makes it very a suitable option for treating acne, given that bacteria and dirt are some of its major causes. Lavender promotes the generation of new skin cells which helps in controlling acne. It also has tremendous healing properties which help in healing and removal of acne scars.

These were some of the most effective ingredients that a cleanser for acne-prone skin should have. The basic steps of cleansing, toning, medicating, and moisturizing should never be skipped. They are the best way to treat acne and give you wonderfully clear and blemish-free skin.

Body acne usually appears on the chest, back, shoulders, and buttocks, but it can affect any part of the body excluding the sole of the feet and the palm of the hands. Researches have shown that people who suffer from face acne usually suffer from body acne as well. As with facial acne, the exact causes of body acne are unknown. They can be genetic, and/or due to sudden stress or unhealthy eating habits. As compared to facial acne, body acne can be more severe as the body skin is thicker and has larger pores.

To actually experience the results of the acne body wash, it is better if you try an entire bottle of the body wash as the contents take time to start working (this will not be the case if the body wash is causing additional skin irritation or other adverse effects).

Best Acne Body Wash for Men

• Some of the best body wash for men are the ones containing antidotes like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or glycolic acid derivative. Salicylic acid in small percentages (usually 2%) helps in keeping pimples and blackheads away. These antidotes help in unclogging the pores and have anti-bacterial properties that help in fighting acne effectively. Products containing these antidotes also reduce oil content, hence there can be a danger of over drying the skin.
• A body wash containing aloe vera and chamomile is effective in healing skin blemishes caused by acne. They also have a fresh fragrance.
• In case of sensitive skin, the best suited body wash will be the ones containing moisturizer as well. This helps prevent dry skin after the wash.
• Some other acne body wash solutions contain vitamins that help in clearing the skin.
• For those who want to go in for more herbal treatments, a body wash containing neem oil, dandelion root or honeysuckle is a good option. These herbs work as antibiotics and reduce skin inflammation.

You can read the reviews on different types of body wash but most of the time, reading reviews may not help as everyone’s skin is different. As a result, a product that works well on someone else, might not be the perfect solution for you, and vice-versa. So you will have to try out the different acne body wash for men that are available and find out as to which suits you the best.

Simple Skin Care

Personal hygiene and proper skin care can help in controlling acne. Make sure you take a shower after activities that make you sweat. After the use of a body wash, you can apply body lotions, especially the ones containing aloe vera and vitamin E. These will moisturize your skin and will help in the overall effect. Many body scrubs that provide roughage are also available. Simple health and hygiene measures can go a long way in controlling the problem of body acne.

If your skin has suffered previous damage due to acne, you can try out acne scar removal methods or go in for simple acne scars treatment. I am sure this article must have helped if you were looking for answers for getting rid of body acne. So go ahead and try out the acne body wash for men which suits you best and be relieved.

These days, such type of moisturizers are meant for different skin types. There are certain brands, which also offer these products for acne prone skin; they contain specific ingredients that protect the sensitive skin areas, and prevent future breakouts of acne.

Foundation or a Moisturizer
Firstly, decide the reason for your requirement of a tinted variety of moisturizer. Do you just want one with a bit of color, or are you looking for a full-fledged face coverage similar to a foundation. Ideally, for everyday usage, stick to the “moisturizer” variety, and if you have an evening function or a special occasion, opt for the “foundation” variety.

Oil-free Formulations
Always opt for the oil-free varieties. Almost all the major brands offer oil-control versions of moisturizers. Though they are non-oily, they still keep the skin well-hydrated. Some brands in the market also offer moisturizers for sensitive skin, which contain certain natural ingredients such as chamomile, that helps for soothing the skin. Tinted moisturizers that contain salicylic acid, keep the skin fresh, and even aid in clearing the acne. Such varieties that are available with natural ingredients, should be applied on the skin, as they contribute in faster healing.

Sun Protection
Tinted moisturizers that are available with sun protection film (SPF) 15 or more, help in protecting the skin against the harmful effects of the sun, which can otherwise aggravate the acne on the skin. Hence, choose the ones that offer sun protection.

Right Shade
Many brands offer a huge selection that is meant for different kinds of skin shades, to choose from. They range from “porcelain”, which is meant for a very fair skin, to “sand”, meant for a skin shade that is light to medium, or “walnut”, which is best for women with deep complexions. During makeup, choose and apply the shade that is closest to your own skin tone.

Tinted moisturizers, unlike a foundation, is non-greasy, controls oil production, protects the skin from sun, and even clears out the acne. It adds a hint of color to the facial skin, without making it lose its natural appearance. Apply it with some translucent powder; the result will be a healthy glow on your face.

There are two different types of exfoliators: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators consist of grains, which when rubbed against the skin, get rid of the dead skin cells. However, it is not suitable for acne prone skin, which is highly sensitive. The ideal exfoliator for such skin is the one that uses chemicals that loosen the bond that holds the dead skin cells together.

Different Types of Exfoliators

Most of the chemical-based exfoliators that are available in the market, consist of acids and enzymes that help you get rid of the dead skin cells and give way to fresh and smooth underlying skin. They are found in the forms of lotions, gels, etc. Products that contain 2% beta-hydroxy acid or salicylic acid are considered as the best. As the beta-hydroxy acids are soluble in oil, it is more effective in treating blemishes and scars left behind by the acne. Then, there are exfoliators with alpha hydroxy acids that are also highly beneficial for sensitive skin. Retinol-based exfoliating agents can also be used. Retinol is basically a form of vitamin A which will help improve the overall skin condition.

Then, there are different chemical peels that can be safely used for removal of dead skin cells. Peels which contain glycolic acid and hydroquinone as components, act gently on the skin and can be used regularly at home. Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peels are widely used by the dermatologists for exfoliation of the skin which in turn kill the bacteria lying under the surface of the skin. Thus, the root cause of acne is eliminated.

If you are looking for natural exfoliators, then you can prepare a fruit mask using one cup of grated apple and 5 tablespoonfuls of honey. Apply it on all those areas where acne tend to erupt more and wait for around 10-15 minutes. Then, wash it off gently with cold water without rubbing the skin much.

Essential Tips

When exfoliating skin at home, you need to keep certain things in mind.

• Wash your face thoroughly with your regular facial cleanser before you use the exfoliator.
• Do not rub the skin too much as it may cause a lot of skin irritation later.
• Do not rub the towel on your face. Just pat it gently to soak up the water.
• After exfoliation, the skin tends to become dry and flaky. Therefore, do not forget to apply a good quality moisturizer soon after.
• The best time to exfoliate is at night, before going to bed.

Over-exfoliation should be strictly avoided. Ideally, it should be done once a week only. Too much of exfoliation can worsen the acne condition further.

The best way of dealing with acne is by combating the problem of oil secretion on your skin. The unwanted eruptions on your skin are a result of excess secretion of sebum from the sebaceous glands. As this gets trapped beneath the skin, it leads to mounds, which we commonly refer to as acne. The worst part about acne are its scars. They remain there forever and ruin your natural look. Let’s see what are the acne cleansers for oily skin, so that you get back the radiance of an unblemished skin.

Honey and Apples
An effective remedy for oily skin is a honey and apple pack. Grate half an apple and pour a tablespoon of honey into it. Mix the two well and apply the mixture all over the affected area. Leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes, so that the skin soaks it in. Wash it with warm water by massaging in circular motion. Splash some cold water or run an ice cube over the area to close the pores.

Oatmeal and Water
Oatmeal is a popular remedy for acne. Buy some regular oatmeal and grind it. It is alright if the mix is slightly grainy. The moment you add some water to it, the mixture will turn milky and the ingredients will merge together. Now apply this paste on the affected area and leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes. Oatmeal will make your skin smooth, supple and elastic. Wash it with warm water and then splash some cold water to close the pores.

Rosewater and Sandalwood
Sandalwood paste and rose water is a remedy which always works not just for acne, but for acne scars too. Make a paste out of 1 tablespoon sandalwood powder and 1 tablespoon rosewater. Mix them well until you get a thick paste. The sandalwood powder will soak the excess oil from the surface. Apply the paste on your face and leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes. Wash it with warm water by massaging in circular motion. This will also exfoliate your skin. Warm water opens the pores on the skin. So to close them again splash some cold water. For best results, use this homemade pack once in 15 days.

Mud Mask
Mud masks have the ability to absorb the oil on the topmost surface which prevents formation of acne. You will need 2 tablespoons of Fuller’s Earth (also known as multani mitti), 1 teaspoon honey, 1 tablespoon carrot juice and some water. Mix all the ingredients together until it is a thick paste. Wash your face or the affected area with lukewarm water. Pat dry and apply this mixture on your face. Leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes and wash your face with cold water.

So, these were some of the homemade cleansers for your oily skin. However, I believe prevention is better than cure. To keep acne at bay, keep your skin as clean as possible. Using a suitable face wash works wonders for oily skin. Dietary intake is an integral part of skin care. Restrict having salt, sugar, and oily food stuffs to keep your skin healthy and clean. Drink plenty of water to wash out the toxins and for cleansing the internal system. These valuable tips will surely help you to get back your flawless complexion.

As we know, unclear skin is one of the prime victim of acne, which has one simple solution, is the form of cleansing. Causes of unclear skin are numerous, ranging from unhealthy personal habits, improper diet, hormonal imbalance and use of wrong and excessive beauty products. To improve this kind of skin, one can always opt for cleansers specially made for acne prone skin, as a safe and effective option.

Best Acne Cleanser
One of its main causes is excessive secretion of sebum in the skin pores. This secretion blocks the skin pores and leads to inflammation, which we better known as acne. It further gets affected by bacteria and other nasty infections, leading to acne breakouts, even all over the body.

This is where acne cleansers come in handy. Acne cleansers help the removal of the dead skin cells, excessive sebum secretion, and other harmful things like dust and pollutants that get quickly settled in the open skin pores.

As a customer, the best thing one can do is to check for the ingredients of a particular product. Some of the essential ingredients that must be present in the cleanser include, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and several such skin exfoliants that prevent dead skin cells and several antibiotics like erythromycin, tetracycline, and clindamycin etc. These antibiotics are usually combined with benzoyl peroxide. Several retinoids like adapaline, retinol, tretinoin, and isotretinoin etc. are really effective.

Talking about the best cleanser, one cannot deny that there are thousands of acne cleansers available in the market, here are some products that are known to have helped in the reduction of acne breakouts.

Sensitive Skin
Panoxyl Clear Acne Cleansing Gel (Stiefel), Salac (Medicis), Clearasil (Procter & Gamble), Fostex (Bristol-Myers Squibb), Noxzema (Procter & Gamble), Aveeno Bar (SC Johnson), and Olay foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin etc., are some of the best cleansers containing salicylic acid that are suitable for sensitive skin as well as mild acne.

Oily Skin
People with oily skin can always choose one of the following products: Panoxyl Bar, Panoxyl Creamy Wash, Panoxyl Wash – (Stiefel), Benzac-W wash – (Galderma), Clearasil – (Procter & Gamble) and Murad Acne Clarifying Cleanser etc.

Dry Skin
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild Formula, Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser, Eucerin Redness Relief Soothing Cleanser, Phisoderm Deep Cleaning Cream Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin, Jurlique Purifying Foaming Cleanser and Lancome ‘Galatee Confort’ Comforting Milky Creme Cleanser etc.

It is always advisable to consult a dermatologist before deciding which product you wish to settle for. This is because, a dermatologist can study your skin type and its sensitivity and advise you the product best suited for you.

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
Neutrogena body clear body wash is one of the acne skin care product, which cleanses your skin with acne-fighting ingredients. This washes away the excess of oil on the skin and prevents recurrence of acne. The lather that this acne wash makes rinses the pore-clogging residue. Using this product everyday will make your skin feel refreshed and clean.

Zenmed Body Acne Combo
Considered to be one of the best acne treatment options, this is a clay based product, which helps in curing body acne. This product is especially designed to soften the skin. Directions for use suggest, topical application on wet skin while showering. Leave it on for 2-5 minutes till it fairly dries out. Once it dries, wash it off. Salicylic acid, citric acid and oregano oil open up the clogged pores and kill the surface bacteria, respectively.

Sugar Body Acne Wash
To make this body wash at home, you will need 2 cups of coarse sugar, 1 tablespoon baby oil, vanilla or coffee beans, and an essential oil of your choice. Put the beans and the sugar together and let them sit for 2-3 weeks. If you can get a bean extract, skip the aforementioned step. Now remove the beans and make a saturated mixture of oil and sugar. Add a few drops of essential oil and your acne body wash is ready! The best part about this body wash is, you won’t be sticky after rinsing it with soap and water. Additionally, you’ll smell yummy too!

Skin Care Tips
Strict skin care regimen will help you prevent acne outbursts. Here are a few tips for getting rid of body acne:

• Shower twice a day as this keeps your skin cool and clean and removes all the excess dirt if any. Excessive sweating also aggravates body acne, so make sure you keep your body clean by washing it twice in a day.
• Avoid using too many cosmetics. The chemicals and the artificial ingredients used in beauty products end up spoiling your skin. Thus, keep it simple or try to use the natural mineral make-up as much as possible. Remember, at the end of it all, the beauty lies in the eye of the beholder!
• Exfoliate your skin at least once in week for acne prevention. This increases the blood circulation, removes the dead skin, and cleanses the clogged pores. You can use a simple scrub to exfoliate the skin or make a trip to the beauty parlor to get it cleaned.
• Keep your skin hydrated by using an effective moisturizer or a sunscreen. Also, drink about 2 liters of water every single day. Eating a lot of fresh vegetables, fruits, and juices will make your skin glow in a couple of months.

Look after your skin well, as it is the reflection of what happens on the inside. Having a healthy lifestyle, eating right, and moderate amount of exercise will help you keep your body healthy and thus, your skin healthier.