For those facing the all too common problem of acne, there is hope of having clear skin. A variety of treatments for facial acne are available, ranging from over-the-counter topical acne solutions to new technology in the field of acne control. While nothing works for everyone, most acne sufferers should find a solution to suit their needs among the many options available today.
OTC Topical Acne Solutions
Over-the-counter acne solutions can be very effective in controlling mild to moderate cases of noninflammatory facial acne. Most of these contain one or more of four common active ingredients, which are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids and sulphur.
Benzoyl peroxide works by killing P. Acnes bacteria and removing excess oils from the affected area. It also helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. Salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads, as well as slowing the rate at which dead skin cells are shed, which prevents clogged pores.
Alpha hydroxy acids help remove dead skin cells, reduce inflammation and stimulate the growth of healthy new skin cells. Sulfur helps in the removal of dead skin cells and excess skin oil.
Prescription Topical Treatments
For those who have been unable to bring facial acne under control with over-the-counter solutions, stronger topical medications prescribed by a dermatologist may be the way to go. Among the most effective of these are solutions containing retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A. Often, these are combined with antimicrobials, such as benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics for faster and more effective control of facial acne.
Light and Laser Treatments
Light and laser treatments are fairly new on the acne control scene. Using focused light or laser technology, these treatments can kill bacteria that promotes acne breakouts, as well as shrinking over-productive sebaceous glands, reducing the amount of skin oil produced.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is frequently used in the treatment of acne and acne scars. With the use of fine abrasive particles and light suction, microdermabrasion removes the top layer of dead skin, revealing the smoother, healthier layer underneath. This reduces the potential for clogged pores and acne flare-ups.
Systemic Acne Treatments
Systemic acne treatments are oral medications that can alleviate acne symptoms, most often prescribed after topical treatments have been tried and have failed to bring acne under control. Oral antibiotics are among these, such as erythromycin or tetracycline, generally prescribed for periods of up to six months.
Oral contraceptives can be effective in the treatment of acne in females, reducing the amount of skin oils produced. Isotretinoin is another common systemic acne treatment, but is generally regarded as a treatment of last resort for very severe cases of acne, due to its potential for serious side effects. Women of childbearing age must be particularly careful, as isotretinoin is known to cause birth defects in 25 to 30 percent of fetuses exposed to the drug.
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