Just about every person in the world will be affected by acne at some point in their lives. Acne is most often related to hormone changes that occur during puberty. But, adults also have trouble with acne well beyond puberty. The treatments for acne remain the same no matter the age of the patient.



Acne occurs when dirt is trapped in the pores of the skin. The dirt causes friction of the pore and a small infection occurs. The body naturally tries to fight off the infection and scabs over the infected area. Thus the bump that appears on the skin. Under the protective layer of skin that grows on top of the infection is the white substance or pus.

Skin cleansing is probably the best acne treatment. The skin is the largest organ of the body and serves as the protection our body needs to prevent infection of the blood and organ systems. Despite the huge job the skin undertakes, it is also the most sensitive organ for many people. Skin cleansing can help to remove dirt and grime from the pores. Cleansing the skin with over the counter cleansers can wreak more havoc on the skin that a simple washing with plain warm water for many patients. At the heart of the problem is the additives used in skin cleansers. In patients who suffer from acne the skin cleansers chosen should be fragrance free, hypoallergenic and soap free. Cetaphil and Aquaphor are two named brand skin cleansers that effectly remove dirt from the skin without soap as an ingredient.

For patients who do not find relief from their acne with skin cleansing alone, medications can be prescribed by doctors or purchased over the counter. The most common medications come in the form of lotions, pads and liquids. Many of these products contain alcohol and thus irritate the skin further. When choosing a medication for the skin, make sure there are no added ingredients that may irritate the skin.

Medications can also be prescribed by a dermatologist that can be taken orally. These medications are most often reserved for very severe cases of acne. As with any oral medication, the chance of side effects from the medication will weigh on the final decision about whether to take the medication or remain on a more natural course of treatment.

After the acne has been effectively eradicated, there are often scars and marks left on the skins surface. These scars are often confined to the upper most layer of skin. While the body will naturally slough off this layer of skin, dermabrasion can help to speed along the process. Dermabrasion is the removal of the upper most layer of skin in order to reveal a clearer, healthier skin layer.

Acne is not a condition patients have to live with. Acne treatments are available for patients with mild, moderate and severe acne.