The skin care market has exploded with acne treatment options including physical, chemical and natural options. To help keep your skin safe, the United States Food and Drug Administration regulates products and treatments and approves only those tested and proved to be safe. Although other treatment options might still remain on the market, choosing an FDA-approved treatment can help protect your skin and your financial investment in the product.
Over the Counter Medications
One of the first FDA-approved options for acne treatment are over the counter topical medications. These products use active ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and sulfur to kill bacteria, improve the shedding of dead skin cells and to help unclog acne-prone pours. These medications can come in soap or lotion form, as well as gels or application pads.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are another FDA-approved option for treating acne outbreaks. Antibiotics are reserved only for severe acne outbreaks and your doctor or dermatologist must prescribe them. Antibiotics target and kill the bacteria involved in acne infections called Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes.
Retinoids
Retinoids are another common treatment for acne that have been approved by the FDA. According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the most common causes of acne is the irregular shedding of skin cells. Retinoids help address this problem by increasing the skin's naturally abilities to shed correctly. This treatment might also help reduce acne inflammation.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is also approved by the FDA for treating acne. Azelaic acid, also known as Finacea, works by reducing the levels of Propionibacterium acnes bacteria and keeping the pores clear of blockages.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin, or Accutane, can also be used to treat acne but, according to the FDA, isotretinoin should only be used in severe nodular acne cases where all other treatment methods have been unsuccessful. This caution is due to isotretinoin's list of side effects, including nose bleeds, muscle aches, vision problems, increase of blood fat and liver problems. Side effects are even more serious in women as isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects if taken while pregnant.
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