Zits

- The scientific name for a ‘zit’ is pimple. A zit is the result of a blockage of the skin’s pore.  Due to their destructive and obtrusive nature zits are all but desired.  Since our skin is full of so many pores, zits are quite common among a large majority of the population.  Zits are most prevalent during the teenage years due to the enlargement of pores as a side effect of the puberty process.
Causes of Zits - A natural process of the skin is to produce sebum.  This production takes place within the pores in the sebaceous glands.  As the outer layers of the skin continuously shed, dead skin cells clog the pores causing blockages.  The excess of sebum harbors various bacteria which in turn cause infection.

The body’s primary natural defense against any type of bacteria is white blood cells.  White blood cells build up behind the blockage and destroy the bacteria to thus prevent infection.  The build-up of white blood cells is what causes the appearance of ‘whiteheads’ (another common name for zit).

Zit treatments - There are a number of treatments available for zits, whether they are over-the-counter or prescription medications.  Research is always being conducted to more effectively cure the zits that plague your face and body.

Over-the-counter medications - There are two common ingredients in over-the-counter medications: salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide works by bringing additional oxygen to pores, which creates a more hostile environment for bacteria to grow in.  A major side effect of the use of benzoyl peroxide is the drying out of skin.  Some common side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide include dry, itchy skin, redness, flaking and burning of the skin. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid.

Prescription medications - Only the more serious cases of zits should require the use of prescription medications in which case it is best to consult a doctor.

What to do to find a cure for your zits - To find out what consumers like you have rated as the top acne treatments for the treatment of their zits - based on being the most effective, lowest price, best quality, and overall value, keep reading below…