acne
A Patient's Guide to Acne
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Acne Treatment Overview

Acne treatment starts with understanding your specific acne type, and what improves and worsens your acne. Each skin is individual, and reacts to different factors and thus each case of acne is individual. Over the counter treatment is the most common way to deal with acne, and should be the first thing to look for.

Topical Treatment (Creams)

Topical treatment is the most rudimentary treatment for acne. There are several ingredients that can help contain the acne. Benzoyl peroxide in particular is found in many over the counter acne cleansers. Below are some commonly used topical ingredients:

Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin, better known by its brand name Accutane, is the most powerful treatment for acne. It can treat even the most serious cases of acne. It is also a drug that is considered to be controversial by many due to its potential dangerous side-effects.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often used to control acne. Acne is often triggered by a proliferation of acne bacteria. However, unlike an infection, acne will not quickly dissipate simply by reducing the number of bacteria on the skin. It is actually the anti-inflammatory effects of antibiotics that is often being sought.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are often used to treat adult acne in women. It can help regulate hormone levels, which is often the trigger for adult acne in women. Many people appreciate this, as it is a convenient treatment.

Other Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapies are often used to treat acne in women. Acne which is triggered by hormonal fluctuations are not uncommon, and in these cases, hormone therapy can be every effective.

Acne Scar Treatments

Acne scars are a common problem. Scarring is a natural defense mechanism and occurs anytime the skin is damaged beyond its most superficial layer, and acne is a common trigger. Although prevention is the best treatment, there are treatments that can improve the appearance of acne scars.



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