Acne is one of the most embarrassing things that some teenagers have to cope with. These red monsters ruin their social image and they struggle relentlessly to find a cure for them. At best, some ointments applied locally, treat the symptoms, but there seems to be no permanent solution to this awfully annoying problem.

Acne sufferers have typically four basic treatment options to choose from. The foremost of these are the topical ointments which contain anti-bacterial agents. Applied to the surface of the affected area, these ointments help to kill the bacteria that are creating havoc in a teenager's clogged pores.

The second option is to take oral medication, which is more beneficial to treat body acne and extremely severe cases of acne affecting the face. These oral medications contain antibiotics and are quite effective in reducing some of the more severe cases of acne.

Hormone therapy is another option available to people afflicted with acne but it is not very common. While there are several treatment options available with hormone therapy, a common practice is to inject cortisone directly into lesions. Other options include using inhibitors that prevent hormones like androgen from causing further outbreaks.

In recent years, laser therapy has become an effective treatment option for acne. Highly concentrated beams of light are aimed directly at the affected regions during laser treatment. The acne-causing bacteria can be literally vaporized with the intense heat from the laser. The true effectiveness of laser therapy can only be assessed after the patient has undergone several sessions with the laser.

Lasers are also beneficial for reducing the scarring caused by acute cases of acne. It burns away the dead skin and makes the scars less noticeable. Laser treatment can take several months to be effective. Nonetheless, it is worth it as it can treat the problem from its very roots.

Unfortunately, laser treatment for acne costs quite a packed and most insurance plans do not cover this treatment. Laser treatment is likely to remain an expensive treatment option even for the coming years because the specialized equipment and facilities it requires are very costly. All acne treatment options including hormone therapy or oral medication carry some minimal risks. The risks involved in laser therapy are no greater.

Acne is a very brutal and cruel part of growing up. Some of us are hit with it pretty hard while others seem to escape the curse entirely with only an occasional blemish here or there. Topical ointments are fairly effective in treating mild acne, but they can do little to stem the tide of an acute case of acne. In such cases, consult with your doctor or dermatologist and ask if laser treatment is an option for you.