Successful acne treatment typically involves at least a two-step treatment program. Mild acne might only require daily cleansing and a medicated cream. Moderate acne may warrant daily application of medicated cream and antibiotics. More severe cases of acne may require treatment with potent oral medications followed by scar reduction procedures. Whether you suffer from an occasional mild breakout or chronic cystic acne, a two part treatment will likely provide more results than regular facial cleansing alone.
Significance
Acne affects a large number of people. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 40 to 50 million Americans suffer from breakouts at some point during their lives. Acne primarily affects the skin on the face, neck, back and chest. A stigma exists in relation to acne that it stems from poor hygiene, causing many sufferers to resort to over-washing or cleansing more than twice daily. This tactic often leads to irritation that worsens acne. Combining twice daily cleansing with medicated treatments is a more effective approach to treating acne.
Cleansing and Salicylic Acid
Mild acne may not require care by a dermatologist or prescription creams, but simply washing your face may not be enough. Instead, look for over-the-counter products formulated with acne-fighting ingredients. For non-inflammatory breakouts like blackheads and whiteheads, washing with a gentle cleanser and applying a 2 percent salicylic acid cream may effectively unclog pores and prevent new clogs. Salicylic acid cream may cause mild stinging or skin irritation.
Cleansing and Benzoyl Peroxide
If your breakouts include inflamed pimples and red spots, try a cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide along with a 2.5 percent or 5 percent benzoyl peroxide cream. Benzoyl peroxide creams help reduce excess oil, a common factor among acne sufferers. Benzoyl peroxide fights skin bacteria, called P. acnes. The bacteria get trapped in pores and multiply, causing inflamed breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide may cause excessively dry skin when you first begin treatment. Applying a small amount once daily and slowly increasing to larger amounts twice daily will help reduce this side effect.
Antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide
If you suffer from moderate yet chronic breakouts, a dermatologist may recommend an oral antibiotic along with benzoyl peroxide applications. Antibiotics work from the inside to battle bacteria, which contribute to inflamed breakouts. Antibiotic resistance may occur with antibiotic-only treatment if skin bacteria become resistant to a particular antibiotic. To avoid this, dermatologists often combine skin creams with antibiotic treatment. Benzoyl peroxide, which also fights bacteria, may be recommended for moderate acne.
Antibiotics and Retinoids
For stubborn cases of acne, a topical retinoid, such as adapalene, may be prescribed. According to PubMed Health, adapalene stops pimples from forming under the skin. Adapalene comes in liquid, gel or cream form. Other topical retinoids include tretinoin and tazarotene. Topical retinoid treatment may cause acne to worsen temporarily as pimples under the skin come to the surface. Other side effects associated with topical retinoids include severe skin dryness, redness, peeling, stinging and increased sun sensitivity. Inform your physician of possible pregnancy or if you plan to become pregnant, as retinoids and certain antibiotics should not be used while pregnant.
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