Acne Face Treatments

Over-the-counter treatments are generally the frontline of acne face treatments. When acne is severe or over-the-counter medication fails, prescription treatments can be tried. Some people opt for acne procedures, with the benefit of not having to remember medication. Procedures are generally more costly and not usually covered by insurance companies. Most treatments are not a cure, causing acne to return when the treatment is stopped.

Over-the-Counter Products

Benzoyl peroxide is a popular acne treatment that works to reduce Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and remove dead skin cells. Benzoyl peroxide generally comes in gel, liquid, lotion and cream forms. A water-based form is the least likely to irritate the skin. Most preparations come with a 5 to 10 percent concentration; but, the effect is generally the same no matter which concentration you use.

Salicylic acid is another popular acne treatment that helps to correct abnormal shedding of skin cells. Salicylic also works to unclog pores and prevent lesions. Salicylic acid must be continually used to avoid the return of acne and is found in the form of lotions, creams and pads.

Other over-the-counter treatments include resorcinol, sulfur, alcohol and acetone. Resorcinol and sulfur are generally combined to control acne lesions. Sulfur is sometimes paired with alcohol and salicylic acid as well. Sulfur is rarely used on its own due to its unpleasant smell. Alcohol has a mild antimicrobial properties and acetone works to degrease skin. Alcohol and acetone are combined together. Acetone does not work for acne on its own.

Prescriptions

Antibiotics may be prescribed for people who suffer from moderate-to-severe acne. Antibiotics work by reducing P. acnes population, which is the main cause of acne. Antibiotics are generally used for six months or less as the P. acnes bacteria can build a resistance to the antibiotic. Antibiotics commonly prescribed for acne include erythromycin and tetracycline.

Retinoids are a derivative of vitamin A and work to unclog pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from forming. Sun sensitivity and skin irritation are common when using topical retinoids. Retinoids have an added bonus of diminishing fine lines and wrinkles in the skin. Accutane is the brand name for isotretinoin, which is a retinoid used to treat severe acne. Other commonly prescribed retinoids include adapalene, tazarotene and tretinoin.

Corticosteroid injections are used when a cyst becomes severely inflamed. Birth control pills can also help women with acne by suppressing overactive sebaceous glands.

Procedures

Doctors and licensed professionals can do procedures to treat acne. Chemical peels containing glycolic acid loosen blackheads and decrease acne papules. Comedo extraction removes comedones. Whiteheads and blackheads are extracted with a pen-sized device. Some medication-resistant cysts are treated with drainage and extraction, commonly called "acne surgery." Laser and light treatments also target P. acnes and treat acne scars.

References

• Acne Treatment; AcneNet; January 2009
• The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies; Prevention; 2002