Acne affects just about everyone at some point and the American Academy of Dermatology reports that 40 to 50 million Americans and 85% of all teenagers will suffer from acne within a single year. Acne is the result of clogged pores, which provide a breeding ground for bacteria. When the bacteria multiply, it results in an infection that shows up as acne. If the infection is near the surface, it shows as a blackhead. The deepest of infections results in severe acne, which evolves into cysts. Widespread acne and cysts are considered more severe cases and require some advanced acne treatments.
Antibiotics
Dermatologists will often prescribe antibiotics in combination with other advanced therapies. Antibiotics are designed to kill bacterial infections. Bactrim, which is manufactured by Roche, and Septra, by Monarch Pharmaceuticals, received the highest ratings from reviewers on the website Acne.org in terms of how well they work, agreeability with the skin and affordability. Both Bactrim and Septra are a combination of two antibiotic drugs: trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Other antibiotics prescribed for acne include tetracycline, minocycline and doxycycline.
Isotretinoin or Accutane
According to the Mayo Clinic, isotretinoin, or Accutane, is the most powerful oral prescription for acne available and is used when antibiotics and other treatments don't work. Though it has proven success in the treatment of acne, dermatologists use this option as a last resort. Patients taking Accutane must be carefully monitored due to its numerous severe side effects, including dryness of the mouth, eyes, nose, throat and lips; depression; itching; nosebleeds; muscle aches; sun sensitivity; and poor night vision. It cannot be taken by pregnant women, as it is known to cause severe birth defects.
Laser Therapy
Laser and light therapies are used to treat moderate-to-severe cases of acne and acne scars. Various laser and light therapies are available to treat specific spots or larger areas. Treatments reduce the amount of oil produced by the sebaceous glands as well as kill the bacteria causing the infections.
Corticosteroid Injections
The American Academy of Dermatology reports that corticosteroid injections are used to reduce pain and speed up the healing time of severe lesions. According to Acne.org, cysts and nodules left untreated can last for weeks and even months due to the depth of the infection, which can prevent topical treatments from reaching it. Injections also reduce the chance of cysts leaving scars.
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