Fighting Acne: Is Proactiv® Solution Right for You?

The Proactiv® Solution has fast become the number one selling topical acne treatment. We have all become familiar with the system through their heavy infomercial campaign. With celebrity endorsements and amazing promises, the system seems to be a dream come true, especially for those with troubled skin. However, before you make this purchase you should compare Proactiv® Solution with other acne treatment options.

Finding the right skin care products can be a trial and error process. If you have acne, this process can be emotional and embarrassing. Acne treatments have flooded our markets and a simple trip to the drug store can turn into a major marketing evaluation. We all know that skin care developers, always willing to tell us whatever we need to hear, want us to buy their products. My first inclination is to send yo to the doctors for advise. Sure, there are some great products by independent retailers that doctors are unlikely to endorse. Still, a trip to the dermatologist should be a priority if your skin shows signs of inflamation, such as swelling, redness, and heat at the site of breakouts. In such cases antibiotics might be in order. The doctor can also avail to you such products as Retin-A.

Beyond the prescription drugs, there are three over-the-counter products leading the dermatology reviews. Proactiv® Solution is one, then there is Murad® and ZENMED™ Derma Cleanse® System. Each product has its pros and cons, but all three have a their success stories. Let us take a look each.

"Proactiv® Solution is a, dermatologist-developed Combination Therapy® system that helps the skin heal the blemishes you have now - and helps stop new ones from forming - in three quick, easy steps." That is the promise at least. Proactiv® uses a basic wash, tone, and moisturize system. Although it was developed by dermatologists, this is not a revolutionary approach to skin care. It is the same concept behind most skin treatment systems, including those made by Avon, Beauty Control, and Mary Kay. This is a proven system that works on most skin types, though problems arise in a select few. The most common complaints are over-drying of the skin and poor management of sever acne. These skin care systems, including Proactiv®, are sometimes known to aggravate serious skin conditions such as Rosaceae, Eczema, and severe cases of Acne.

"Unlike other products, the Murad® system treats acne as a disorder and attacks acne from all angles. This scientifically advanced system has helped thousands to naturally conquer this debilitating disorder - and it will help you too!" That is what they claim, yet the product does not have the success rate Proactiv® has. However, Murad® has one very special feature, and that is its gentle formula. This delicate system works especially well for people with acne and sensitive skin.

Another popular product leading the reviews is the ZENMED™ Derma Cleanse® System. This system is unique as it "...is scientifically formulated to treat acne from the inside-out," says their promotional campaign. The herbal capsules are said to promote healing and maintaining healthy skin from the inside. The concept make sense, but only time will prove its efficacy. This product is relatively new, but is being recommended by many dermatologists. So far, patients are reporting good results.

Regardless of the system that you choose, there a few things to keep in mind when caring for your skin: Never scrub your face, this will only cause irritation and slow the healing of blemishes. Drink plenty of water, this really can make a difference. Do not to touch your face, finger oils will cause additional breakouts, and never touch squeeze or pick at existing blemishes (this will only slow healing, leaving unsightly scabs and possibly scars). Most importantly, eat all the chocolate you want, it won't make a bit of difference!