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Acne is very common during puberty. And even though everything seems to be clumped under one word - acne - there are different forms and degrees of this condition.

Unfortunately, there are people that develop severe cases of acne like acne conglobata or acne fulminans. For these people, medical assistance is vital. However, mild forms of acne vulgaris can be treated with the proper cleansing routine and over the counter skin care products.

If your acne condition is just a mild form of acne, then here's how you can treat it:

The Right Cleansing Routine

Before seeing that first pimple appear it is important that you establish a regular cleansing routine. This is one of the best forms of treating acne and keeping your skin smooth and glowing. It is also a good way to establish a healthy cleansing routine for the rest of your life.

Any good cleansing routine begins with a soapy cleanser. It is important that any cleanser you use contain an acne fighting component such as salicylic acid.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that can help you regulate the production of sebum. It also helps promotes the normal shedding of cells which will help avoid clogged pores. Both of these actions are what keep most acne problems under control.

After cleansing, use an oil-free toner to remove any soapy residue. And once a week you should use an exfoliator to help remove any lingering debris or dead skin cells while also helping prepare your skin to be moisturized.

Once you've cleansed, toned, and exfoliated you should apply an oil-free moisturizer. Even if you have oily skin, moisturizing is a must. The only real difference is that when treating oily skin, you should use water-based or light moisturizers.

Over-The-Counter (OTC) Acne Products

If you have acne prone skin then acne creams should be a normal part of your cleansing routine. Look for products that contain retinol, salicylic acid and/or sulfur. All of these ingredients will help regulate the production of sebum.

Ingredients such as sulfur help promote healing while others such as retinol help promote the production of epithelial cells. However, if your skin is dry or sensitive, you should moderate your use of these products. Use a thicker moisturizer to soothe any burning or use these products a couple of times a week.

Treat Severe Acne Properly

As previously mentioned, severe forms of acne, such as cystic acne, should be treated by a doctor. The severe inflammation caused by these types of acne can easily lead to extensive and noticeable scars, so it is vital that you begin treatment as soon possible.

But, before you purchase a potent acne treatment, be aware that some treatment options can lead to irritation. For example acne cysts may require intralesional steroid shots, while cystic acne treatment may require the use of tretinoin, which can cause mild irritation.