Acne Medications

These are created when the openings of hair follicles become clogged and blocked with oil secretions and dead skin.

Blackheads are almost like whiteheads, but the difference is that they are not completely closed off to the skin surface, which causes them to darken.

These are raised, reddish spots that signal inflammation or infection in the hair follicles.

These are thick lumps beneath the surface of the skin, which are formed by the buildup of secretions deep within hair follicles.

Many OTC topical treatments such as acne lotions can reduce the oiliness, eliminate bacteria and help clear away dead skin cells. These products are typically mild in nature and contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or lactic acid as their active ingredients, which aid in their effectiveness. If you have mild acne, then these products might be of immense help. However, if the condition is more severe, there are other powerful therapies available as well. Vitamin A-derived topical prescription products like Tretinoin (Avita, Retin-A, Renova), and Adapalene (Differin) are some of the most commonly used ones. They work by promoting cell turnover and preventing the plugging of the hair follicle. Various topical antibiotics are also accessible for use. They work by killing excess skin bacteria. Using several of these products together can generate the best possible results.

Oral antibiotics can help manage acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation, potentially leading to long-term improvement in the severity of the condition. It’s possible you may require antibiotics over an extended duration, and it could be necessary to supplement them with topical products.

For deep cysts, antibiotics may not be enough. Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a potent medication used to treat cystic acne and those types of acne that don’t respond to standard solutions. This medication is generally recommended only for the most extreme cases of this skin disorder. Though it is highly effective, taking this drug carries a risk of severe side effects, thus requiring individuals to be closely monitored by their dermatologist.

Oral contraceptives, including a combination of norgestimate and Ethinyl estradiol (Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen), have been shown to improve acne in women. It’s possible that oral contraceptives may cause some other types of side effects, so it’s important to have a conversation with your doctor about potential risks.

Doctors may be able to use cosmetic surgery to diminish scars left by acne. Procedures include peeling away damaged skin with chemicals or by freezing it, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing. Peeling procedures eliminate superficial scars. Dermabrasion, which is usually reserved for more severe scarring, involves removing the top layers of skin with a rapidly rotating wire brush. Laser resurfacing involves using short pulses of intense light to remove the outer layer of your skin. If your skin yields conspicuous scar tissue, these treatments may result in an even worsened complexion.

Products such as facial scrubs, astringents and masks generally aren’t recommended because they tend to irritate the skin, which can aggravate acne. Cleaning your skin too often or scrubbing vigorously can lead to irritation. If you are experiencing acne near your hairline, consider washing your hair daily for better results.

Products with benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, or salicylic acid are proven to effectively treat the skin and provide results.

Additionally, oily/greasy products, sunscreens, hair styling products, and acne concealers should be avoided as they can cause irritation.Use products labeled “water-based” or “noncomedogenic.” If the sun worsens your acne, protect yourself from sunlight which is a good idea in general. If stress causes outbreaks, work on reducing your stress level.

Keep your hair clean and off your face. To protect yourself and others, it’s important to avoid touching your face or placing any objects, such as telephone receivers, on them. Tight clothing or hats also can pose a problem, especially if you’ll be sweating. Acne can be caused by sweat, dirt, and oils built-up on the skin.

Picking or squeezing can cause infection or scarring. Most acne will clear up without this kind of intervention. To get the best results in treating acne, visit a dermatologist or doctor for more intensive care.