Acne Treatment

How to treat acne

Acne treatment can either topical treatment applied to the acne, or oral. Mild acne such as blackheads and whiteheads can be treated with over the counter treatments such as topical creams, lotions, gels or soaps. These acne treatments normally contain antibacterial agents such as benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids which loosen the dead skin cells that are blocking the hair follicles causing acne. Benzoyl peroxide dries the skin and may cause some irritation and redness. Normally this settles down but if it persists you should consult your doctor. Always apply topical medicine carefully, damaging the skin risks spreading the infection.
If the acne is caught early enough by treating blackheads and whiteheads, infection may be prevented. Over the counter acne treatments take time to work and should continue for six months. If the acne does not improve after several months you may need a prescription medicine.

Prescription medicines for moderate acne may be either topical or oral acne treatments. Initially, if the acne is not too severe, your doctor may recommend a topical treatment. If this does not work he may prescribe a low dose oral acne treatment or a combination of topical and oral treatments. Some women find that taking the contraceptive pill helps to clear their acne.

If you are suffering from severe acne your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist and you could be prescribed isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is an oral drug that is a highly effective acne treatment. It works by reducing the amount of oil produced. However, isotretinoin should never be taken except under strict supervision as it can have side effects including liver damage or cause depression. Pregnant women should never take it and women are advised to practise two forms of birth control if they have been prescribed isotretinoin as an acne treatment. This protection should be taken for one month before and after using isotretinoin.

Acne can cause scarring and there are a number of treatments available. These can include laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, collagen injections, and chemical peels. The effectiveness of these acne treatments depends on the individual patient and the extent of the acne scarring.

Finally your doctor may decide to treat the pyschological effects of acne. The physical appearance of acne can be very depressing, particularly for a teenager. Curing acne takes time and anyone, regardless of their age, suffering from what they see as a disfigurement, needs support. Parents should be on the lookout for signs of depression and doctors should offer counselling.

Acne Treatment

How to get rid of acne using over the counter or prescription medicines.

How to treat acne

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