There are enough acne programs and treatments out there to suit every skin type and sensitivity. But that makes the world of acne treatment all the more difficult to navigate. Luckily, there are a few broad categories of acne treatment plans that will help you understand what's available and how to find the best program for your needs.
Over-the-Counter
The acne treatments most people are familiar with are over-the-counter medications. These cleansers, toners and creams usually contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur and work to dry up excess oil, help dead skin cells slough off and unclog pores. These programs are helpful in moderate to moderately severe cases of acne, but generally have little to no effect on those with severe acne.
Antibiotics
Another common acne treatment is the use of antibiotics. Topical antibiotics can be used to kill bacteria directly on your skin and prevent new blemishes from forming due to the presence of bacteria. In severe cases, oral antibiotics will usually be prescribed, though close monitoring is needed to prevent resistance to antibiotics. Commonly used antibiotics, both topical and oral, are erythromycin, tetracycline, doxycycline and minocycline.
Topical Retinoids
Topical retinoids are a type of vitamin A and, according to AcneNet, work to unclog pores by removing dead skin cells from your face more quickly. These drugs, such as Tretinoin, are available by prescription. These drugs are especially good at getting rid of blackheads and whiteheads.
Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives are used in women who have hormone-related acne breakouts. It works by suppressing oil production over time, thus keeping your skin clearer. That being said, oral contraceptives are not recommended for smokers, migraine sufferers, those over the age of 35 or people with clotting issues, according to AcneNet.
Isotretinoin
Isotreinoin is an oral medication that's used to treat severe acne. It dries out your skin dramatically and helps to unclog pores. Following treatment, your skin will likely be permanently drier and you may never suffer from acne again. Use of isotretinoin does not come without risks and can cause birth defects and depression.
Removal
Sometimes, acne lesions or cysts are so deeply embedded in the skin, medications can't get to them. In these cases, a dermatologist will drain material from the cyst or extract the hard nodule to allow medication inside and to prevent scarring. Large cysts are also sometimes injected with a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and to heal the blemish from the inside out.
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