What Are the Treatments for Inflammatory Acne?

Acne is a common problem for many people from the time they hit puberty through adulthood. Unfortunately, some cases of acne can also cause painful inflammation of the affected areas. When inflammatory acne occurs, a few different treatment options are available. These options can be used alone or in combination.

Antibiotics

One of the most common treatments for inflammatory acne is topical or oral antibiotics. Not only do antibiotics help reduce the inflammation, they also kill the P. acnes bacteria that is commonly responsible for acne outbreaks.

Retinoids

Retinoids, such as tretinoin, are another common treatment for inflammatory acne. Retinoids are a form of vitamin A, which helps to increase the rate in which cells turn over, which can help prevent pours from getting clogged.

Sodium Sulfacetamide

Sodium sulfacetamide is another common treatment for inflammatory acne breakouts. It is an antibacterial solution that helps kill the P. acnes bacteria on the skin by interfering with its ability to grow.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a common solution for acne treatment that also works well for treating inflammatory acne. Benzoyl peroxide dries up the oils responsible for causing the pores to clog. It can also help kill the P. acnes bacteria.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid can also be used to treat inflammatory acne. Azelaic acid is a prescription-strength medication that inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause acne; it also can help keep the pores clean and clear of blockages.

References

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Treatment for Moderate to Severe Inflammatory Acne
• The Mayo Clinic: Acne Treatments: Emerging Therapies for Clearer Skin
• Drugs.com: Sodium Sulfacetamide