Most acne treatment products get rid of acne by reducing the amount of oil produced in the body. The components of the products speed up skin cell turnover and unclog the pores of the skin. They also fight the acne-producing bacteria and get rid of the infection and the skin inflammation. In most cases however, the ingredients may cause an acne breakout before the actual acne treatment procedure. Regardless of the severity of the skin condition, it is advised that patients should first consult with their dermatologist or physician before using any kind of acne treatment product.



Acne Treatments That You Can Choose From

Topical Treatments

For those who have mild cases of acne breakout, acne lotions and creams are often recommended. These topical medications work by reducing the oil in the skin and killing the bacteria that causes the acne. They also get rid of the dead skin cells. Most of the over-the-counter lotions and creams contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, and/ or salicylic acid. As for the prescription topical medications that are provided for those who have moderate cases of acne, they contain vitamin A components that prevent the plugging of the pores.

Antibiotics

For those who have severely inflamed acne cases, most dermatologists will suggest the use of antibiotics. These medications are often obtained only when prescribed by a physician. Antibiotics get rid of acne by reducing the bacteria that clogs the pores and then diminishing the skin inflammation. In severe cases, the patient is required to take the antibiotics for a couple of weeks or even for months. Most of the time, these medications are paired with prescription topical creams.

Isotretinoin

When acne creams, lotions, and antibiotics do not work, isotretinoin is sometimes used. This medication is sometimes recommended for deep cysts and for scarring cystic acne. Even in the most severe cases of acne, this medicine works effectively. Despite the efficiency of the treatment however, it should be noted that such may cause severe side effects as well. That is why close monitoring and guidance of dermatologists are needed.

According to the results of some clinical studies, isotretinoin may cause severe birth defects. As a result, it should not be taken by pregnant women or women who belong to the reproductive age. Aside from birth defects, the use of this drug can also cause an increase in the triglyceride levels of a person, as well as an increase in the cholesterol level in the bloodstream. Some also report that the drug may also cause an increase in the enzyme levels of the liver. When taken continuously, the product user may also develop inflammatory bowel diseases.

Oral contraceptives

Some contraceptives – particularly birth control pills – can be used to control the occurrence of acne. The most common oral contraceptives used as acne treatment solutions are the combination of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol (Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen). Based on some clinical studies, these chemical components may regulate hormonal levels and decrease a person's susceptibility to acne breakouts. However, some oral contraceptives may cause some side effects.