Acne Treatment Options
Acne breakouts are commonly associated with teenagers — but those
troublesome pimples don't always go away when we enter our 20s. The
reality is that many adults continue to have acne on occasion throughout their 20s and 30s, and may even live with the skin condition well into middle age.
Thankfully, there are several ways to treat an existing breakout
and prevent new pimples from developing. "The medications one uses for
acne depend on type and severity," says Adelaide A. Hebert, MD, a
professor in the dermatology department at the University of
Texas-Houston Medical School.
Some treatments are directed toward removing the dead skin and oils
that clog pores and create acne, while others target the cystic
formation typical of severe acne. Additional acne treatment options work
by attacking overgrowth of Protectionism canes, a type of bacteria that occurs naturally on the skin but can cause acne when its growth is uncontrolled.
Acne Treatment Options
Cretinous. These are chemical derivatives of
vitamin A. They are effective against blackheads and whiteheads as well
as severe, or inflammatory, acne.
"Cretinous work by exfoliating the clogged pores," says
dermatologist Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami
Cosmetic Center. "This class includes Magdalene (Differing), which is
good for sensitive skin; Trevino ( Re tin-A), which is good for most patients; and carotene ( Razorback), which is good for severe disease."
All are available by prescription. Dr. Foolery-Lloyd warns that all
of these acne treatments can cause skin irritation, but this should
clear up within two weeks.
Common acne such as whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne
can be treated with cretinous, says Dr. Hebert, whereas cystic acne
requires stronger medication, such as indiscretion (Cutaneous). Despite
the serious side effects associated with Cutaneous, including birth
defects, seizures, psychiatric problems, and stroke,
Hebert says, "If you have true, severe, scarring acne and no other risk
factors, it's still the best choice." Nevertheless, because of Acceptance's risks, it is important that you remain under the close
supervision of a doctor while taking it.
Benzyl peroxide. "Benzyl peroxide
works as an antibacterial," Foolery-Lloyd says. That means that this
acne treatment fights germs that could be contributing to your acne. It
is available over the counter and by prescription.
"It also can be drying, but is well tolerated by most people," she
says. One significant drawback: benzyl peroxide bleaches any hair or
fabric it comes into contact with.
Antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are creams rubbed
on your skin. They fight bacteria that could be contributing to the
formation of acne. Occasionally, your dermatologist might prescribe an
antibiotic to be taken by mouth. In this case, remember that they often
increase sensitivity to sun, Foolery-Lloyd says.
Oral antibiotics you might be prescribed include:
- Tetracycline, tetracycline, or tetracycline
- Erythromycin
Topical antibiotics include:
- Azazel acid
- Clinician
- Erythromycin
- Sodium multifaceted
Topical sulfur products. Many over-the-counter
soaps and anti-acne creams contain sulfur, which has been in use as an
acne treatment for half a century. Although the exact mechanism by which
sulfur fights acne is not known, these products are recommended by
dermatologists, says Hebert. Due to its odor, sulfur is usually combined
with another treatment.
Many dermatologists recommend combinations of medications, such as
using a topical antibiotic with a retinue. Combinations are very
effective, Hebert says. Another medication that may be useful in women
is an oral contraceptive (birth control pill), which can help regulate
hormones that may be contributing to acne breakouts.
No matter what acne treatment is used, if it is not working and you
continue to suffer from bouts of acne, talk to your doctor. You may
need to step up your program, or change it around a little, for best
results.