Acne is a condition that affects 40 to 50 million Americans, says the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It is most common in teenagers; however, anyone can be affected by acne. Pimples, zits, cysts, blackheads and whiteheads are the symptoms of acne. Acne is the most common dermatological disease, but it is controllable with a proper treatment plan.
Function
An acne treatment plan is designed to help reduce the occurrence and severity of pimples, zits and other acne blemishes. The Mayo Clinic says there are four functions of an acne treatment plan. Your acne treatment plan should slough off dead skin, reduce oil production in the sebaceous glands, reduce inflammation and fight against bacterial infections.
Types
Acne treatments are available in over-the-counter (OTC) topical medications, prescription topical and oral medications and cosmetic procedures. The exact type of treatment needed for your acne depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases of acne usually respond to OTC treatments, which usually contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. More severe cases usually require prescription treatments. In some cases, a combination of treatment types is used to control acne.
Time Frame
Most OTC acne treatments and some mild prescription treatments can take as little as four to eight weeks to work. For severe cases of acne that require isotretinoin, a single treatment course is usually 15 to 20 weeks, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Considerations
A vital part of acne treatment is skin care. The medications will help to treat acne-prone skin, but proper skin care will help to maximize the effects of the medications. Keep the area clean by washing up to twice per day, using an antibacterial soap and noncomedogenic products, like moisturizer and cosmetics when needed. Hair that comes into contact with the acne-prone areas should be kept clean, states Medline Plus. Additionally, the area should be touched as little as possible; blemishes should never be picked at or squeezed.
Warning
Failing to treat the acne can cause severe infections and/or permanent scarring. These scars can sometimes be minimized through cosmetic procedures. For acne sufferers with dark skin, extreme caution should be used when choosing OTC acne products, as some products may be too harsh for dark skin.
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