According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three factors that contribute to acne: overproduction of skin oil called sebum, irregularity in the shedding of dead skin cells, and a buildup of bacteria. If excess oil exists on the skin, and the dead skin cells block the pore, it provides a breeding ground for bacteria to grow and fester into an infection. The infection can be at the surface of the skin, resulting in a blackhead, or it can travel deeper into the pore, resulting in what's commonly known as zits and in worse cases, cysts. Since acne can lead to scarring, good treatments are essential.
Over-the-Counter Topical Treatments
The American Academy of Dermatology lists this as the standard treatment for mild acne. Over-the-counter topical treatments include recommended active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide's antibacterial properties kill the acne-causing bacteria, and it also promotes drying and peeling of dead skin cells. Salicylic acid helps to break down blackheads and whiteheads, and it will help to keep the pores dry of excess oil to prevent future breakouts.
Prescription Topical Treatments
When over-the-counter topical treatments aren't strong enough, dermatologists will often prescribe a stronger topical treatment. Prescription topical treatments can include active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and retinoids. Readers of Acne.org give sodium sulfacetamide their highest ratings for how well it works, its overall effect on skin and affordability in comparison to other prescription topical treatments. Azeliac Acid, brand name Azelex, comes in a close second.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are used when topical treatments are virtually ineffective and for moderate to severe acne. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria causing the acne. There are many options in antibiotics to use and readers of Acne.org give Bactrim, Septra (sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim) their highest ratings for oral antibiotics.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin, brand name Accutane, is an oral prescription for the most severe cases of acne. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is the only approved treatment for severe nodular cystic acne by the FDA. It is typically used as a last resort as patients taking this drug must remain under close observation due to possible severe physical and psychological side effects. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or who hope to one day be pregnant as it has been proven to cause severe birth defects.
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