Benzac

Waging an Active War Against Acne with Benzac

Acne and Benzac have commonly been linked to each other. Individuals with stubborn acne conditions may have become quite familiar with this doctor-prescribed acne medication. There are however, also some users who complain about skin drying, peeling and even tenderness. These common side effects however may actually have something to do with the treatment effects of Benzac.

Acne Production

It would be easier to understand how Benzac works if we first look into how acne forms. Acne production is promoted by three main factors: sebum or oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. In some people, genetic make up and hormonal activity may cause an increased production of sebum. This skin oil should normally drain out from the pores onto the skin, giving the skin its healthy glow. The build up of dead skin cells however may clog the pores and stop sebum from draining. This clogged environment becomes conducive for the growth of bacteria which results in the production of acne.

Acne and Teens

Anyone from both genders can have an acne condition. In fact, some people have been known to have acne breakouts even until the age of 30, 40 or 50. Usually though, we do observe that acne conditions are at their worst in teenagers. It is easy to understand why if we take into consideration the role of hormones. The adolescent stage is often the period in one’s life when hormonal activity is high. Teens therefore are natural candidates for acne formation.

In some cases, individuals who are not teens but have terrible acne conditions may have increased or fluctuating hormonal activity for some other reason than natural biological development. Menopausal women, those under hormonal medication and pregnant women may therefore also suffer from acne conditions.

How Benzac Works

Benzac is one product that seeks to address the main factors of acne development. Although hormonal activity cannot be entirely helped, topical solutions like Benzac are supposed to be able to effectively work on bacteria, oil and dead skin cells. Benzac gets into the root of the problem by unblocking pores, killing bacteria and reducing sebum. Incidentally, the sebum reduction function of this medication is one reason why users normally experience some moderate skin drying. If the medicine however is used properly, dry-skin problem will eventually resolve itself.

Benzac AC in particular now uses acrylates copolymer (AC) technology to prevent excessive drying. This allows the absorption of extra sebum but also feeds the skin with glycerin, thereby preventing too much skin dryness.

Caution

Benzac is best used with your dermatologist’s knowledge especially if you have extremely sensitive skin, if you have allergies or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The medication should also be used only in the amount and frequency indicated. Excessive sun exposure should be avoided if you are using this medication.

Benzac comes in strengths of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. Your doctor would normally prescribe the lowest strength first and then progress to higher strengths as your condition may require. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice no improvement or if your skin becomes increasingly irritated.