Acne is often thought of a teenage problem, but it continues to plague many men and women in their adult years. There are effective over-the-counter products than can help adults to fight acne, but if you've given them a try and continue to be bothered by zits, it might be time to consult a dermatologist. Doctors may suggest prescriptions or certain office procedures to help.
Over-The-Counter Topical Treatments
If your acne is mild, you might first want to head to the store and pick up a topical treatment to spread on the affected area. The Mayo Clinic says acne creams and lotions usually list benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid or lactic acid as their active ingredient. The products are designed to help to dry up oils on the skin, kill bacteria and slough away dead skin cells. These products can be helpful for very mild cases, according to the Mayo Clinic, but they might also cause some initial skin irritation.
Prescription Topical Treatments
If your acne doesn't respond to the over-the-counter formulations, a doctor can prescribe topical treatments derived from vitamin A. The Cleveland Clinic says these retinoids help to break up blackheads and whiteheads. Most people can use them, but they may cause some skin irritation. These lotions are available in brand names such as Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac. Topical antibiotics are another possible course of treatment. The Mayo Clinic says these products work by killing bacteria on the skin. Some topical treatments combine antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide.
Oral Treatments
For long-term acne that doesn't respond to topical treatments alone, a doctor might prescribe oral antibiotics to go along with the skin lotions. The Mayo Clinic says doctors use the oral medications to reduce bacteria and fight inflammation, but they don't like to prescribe antibiotics for long-term use because they want to limit the chances of patients developing a resistance to antibiotics. While taking antibiotics, it's especially important to protect your skin while outdoors. The drugs increase sun sensitivity.
Isotretinoin
If your long-term acne is very severe, a doctor might recommend using the drug isotretinoin. It's very effective, according to the Mayo Clinic, but it can produce side effects such as itching, nosebleeds, muscle aches, poor night vision, sun sensitivity and dry eyes, mouth, lips, nose and skin. It might also affect cholesterol and liver enzyme levels. When used by women, the drug has been associated with severe birth defects.
Other Therapies
If you're looking for a non-drug treatment, dermatologists have a couple other options you might consider. Laser and light therapies are used by some doctors to improve the skin's texture and improve the appearance of scarred skin. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels may also be used to control acne.
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