Acne sensitive skin can be very problematic. Frequent and intense breakouts can be easily caused by physical contact with common irritants found in everyday products such as soaps, detergents and cosmetics. These reactions can cause acne to become very persistent and difficult to treat. One of the biggest challenges for acne sensitive skin is finding the right acne treatment. Unfortunately, the active ingredients used in most acne skin care products and medications will cause acne to persist or even worsen. The key is to find milder medication and a natural skin care solution to help fight acne without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.

Common symptoms of acne sensitive skin include:

  • Sensitivity to skin care products and medications
  • Redness, swelling and irritation
  • Frequent acne breakouts
  • Facial flushing

Excess oil production in the sebaceous glands is the primary cause of acne. Teenagers are especially vulnerable to developing acne due to elevated testosterone levels that occur during puberty. Heredity, medication and direct contact with oily substances or cosmetics can also make matters worse.

Caring for acne sensitive skin can be a challenge. Many seemingly safe skincare products may cause the skin to become irritated and inflamed. Look for gentle cleansers that are specially formulated for sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free should be your first choice. Avoid scrubbing the skin as this can cause the skin to become further irritated. Consider adding moisturizers that are non-acnegenic or non-comedogenic (does not cause acne or comedones) if you experience dryness or irritation.

The key to preventing irritation caused by acne medication is to avoid products that contain strong ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and alpha-hydroxy acid. If you do use acne medications, try to use them in smaller amounts and apply less frequently. Some ingredients found in cosmetics can also be a source of irritation. If your makeup is causing a reaction, look for brands that offer natural or hypoallergenic ingredients. It’s also important to remember that the health of your skin comes from within. Adjusting your diet may help improve the appearance of the skin. Drink plenty of water and make sure to eat plenty of green leafy vegetables and foods that are high in vitamin A and vitamin B.

OTC
Most traditional acne treatments contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, which means that a more holistic approach may be appropriate for acne sensitive skin. Look for acne products that contain pure, all-natural and organic ingredients. These may be gentler and less irritating. Products containing herbal formulations and aloe-derived ingredients may help to soothe skin that is inflamed.

Prescription
A doctor may prescribe a milder acne medication that contains lighter concentrations of active ingredients. Medications that contain ingredients such as retinoids, are one of the most effective types of medications and are generally considered to be the first choice of treatment for whiteheads and blackheads. Your physician can choose the one that is best suited to your specific skin needs.If you have severe acne, consult with a dermatologist to find out which treatment option may be best for you. Oral anti-inflammatories and anti-bacterials may be used to treat infection and inflammation, and for cases of cystic acne, or acne that doesn’t respond well to other treatments, isotretinoin may also be used.