Topical Treatments for Acne
1. Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is an
over-the-counter medication that works by killing the bacteria that cause acne
and unclogging pores. It can be found in various forms, including gels, creams,
and washes.
2. Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is an
over-the-counter medication that works by unclogging pores and reducing
inflammation. It is commonly found in cleansers, toners, and acne spot
treatments.
3. Retinoids: Retinoids are prescription
medications that work by increasing cell turnover and unclogging pores. They
also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce acne. Retinoids
can cause skin irritation and should be used under the guidance of a
dermatologist.
4. Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics work by killing
the bacteria that cause acne. They are available by prescription and can come
in the form of gels, creams, and lotions.
5. Combination therapies: Combination therapies are
medications that contain two or more active ingredients, such as benzoyl
peroxide and clindamycin. They can be more effective than single-agent
therapies and are available by prescription.
When using topical treatments for acne, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to use them consistently for best results. Some topical treatments can cause skin irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity, so be sure to use sunscreen and moisturizer as needed. Consult with a dermatologist to determine the best topical treatment for your individual needs.
Oral Medications for Acne
In addition to topical treatments, oral
medications can also be used to treat acne. Oral medications work by reducing
inflammation, decreasing oil production, and killing the bacteria that cause
acne. Here are some common oral medications used for acne:
1. Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics work by killing
the bacteria that cause acne. They are typically prescribed for moderate to
severe acne and can come in the form of pills or capsules.
2. Hormonal therapy: Hormonal therapy can be used
to treat acne in women who have hormonal imbalances. This can include
medications like birth control pills or spironolactone.
3. Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is a prescription
medication that is used to treat severe acne. It works by reducing oil
production, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. Isotretinoin can cause
serious side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a
dermatologist.
4. Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives can be
used to treat acne in women by regulating hormonal imbalances. They work by
reducing the amount of androgen hormones in the body that can cause acne.
5. Anti-androgens: Anti-androgens can be used to
treat acne in women who have hormonal imbalances. They work by blocking the
effects of androgen hormones that can cause acne.
Oral medications for acne can have serious side
effects and should only be used under the guidance of a dermatologist. It is
important to discuss the risks and benefits of each medication with your doctor
and to report any side effects that you experience while taking them.