Acne Medicine

For mild to moderate cases of acne, prescription topical applications, such as lotions, creams and cleansers are typically employed as a first attempt to alleviate symptoms. These products contain varying levels of chemical agents that are known for their abilities to reduce oil, remove dead skin cells, and eliminate the bacteria that cause acne. Commonly used formulas for mild acne include benzoyl peroxide, sulfur or salicylic acid, while more intense cases are treated with the Vitamin A derivatives tretinoin and adapalene. Depending on the severity of the acne and the strength of the dosage, clearer skin can generally be expected within four to eight weeks after starting treatment. While there are many over-the-counter products that contain small doses of these ingredients, the most effective topical applications are only available with a prescription from a doctor or dermatologist.

For severe or persistent cases of acne, a form of oral treatment may be administered. Since most acne is caused by a bacterial infection beneath the surface of the skin, a common type of oral treatment includes a regimen of antibiotics. Antibiotics not only stop the spread of the bacteria, but also reduce skin irritation caused by it. Due to the intense nature of cases requiring antibiotic treatment, they are usually paired with topical applications or cosmetic procedures to produce the best results.

Oral contraceptives, colloquially known as "the pill," can be very effective in decreasing acne in young women. Most variations of the pill contain combination doses of estrogen and norgestimate, two hormones that naturally fight bacteria in skin and reduce oil production. However, treatment with the pill is typically limited to mild or moderate cases due to frequent unwanted interactions with other treatments, such as antibiotics or cosmetic procedures

The most common and most lauded oral treatment for acne is isotretinoin, a chemical agent found in the controversial skin medication Accutane. Isotretinoin is prescribed for severe cases of acne as it is extremely powerful and works well on all types of acne, including the scar-producing deep cyst acne. It has been acclaimed as the most effective acne treatment available, and has been shown to remove all signs of acne from sufferers indefinitely. However, isotretinoin has many serious potential side effects, ranging from birth defects to liver damage to raising cholesterol. Isotretinoin has also been linked to depression and increased suicide attempts, so it should not be taken by individuals suffering from any form of low mental symptoms.

Cosmetic therapies, such as laser treatment, light treatment and chemical peels, are also effective medical treatments for acne. These processes work to remove bacteria and dead skin cells from under the upper dermis as well as decrease skin inflammation and the severity of scars. Such procedures are most effective when combined with other courses of treatment and performed at regular intervals. However, most cosmetic acne treatments are costly and rarely covered by medical insurance.