While there is no cure for acne, it is very treatable. There are a number of procedures to help manage and reduce the symptoms of acne. Acne treatments from the simple to the severe:
Over the Counter Treatments: Since a major cause of acne is the clogging of pores and follicles with dead skin and sebaceous oil, cleansing is the first line of defense against the occurrence and spread of those pesky zits. From simple non-drying soap and water to solutions containing benzoyl peroxide, the removal of dead tissue from infected areas helps stop the overproduction of oils that causes the inflammation of acne. Read more about common popular over the counter acne treatments and specific treatments such as:
Azelaic Acid
Benzoyl Peroxide
Glycolic Acid
Resorcinol
Salicylic Acid
Sulfur
Antibiotics: Acne outbreaks are made worse by the presence of bacteria under the skin. Antibiotics, either in an oral pill or a topical salve can help reduce the bacteria that cause the inflammation and blemishes common in acne.
Clindamycin - lincosamide antibiotic
Doxycline
Erythromycin
Minocycline
Sodium Sulfacetamide
Solodyn
Tetracycline
Hormone treatment: In many cases, acne is caused by high levels of hormones. Hormone therapy, which reduces the levels of androgens, help curb the elements which cause the skin to overproduce sebaceous oils.
Retinoids: Retinoids in either a topical or oral treatment have been shown to reduce the spread of acne.
Adapalene
Tazarotene
Topical Retinoids
Isotretinoin
Tretinoin
Dermabrasion: In some advanced cases, dermabrasion therapy is the best option. Dermabrasion works as sort of a hypercleaning, actually removing a top layer of skin. Done with chemicals or lasers, this treatment is effective both in cleansing the skin of obstructions and removing some of the harsher effects of scarring. Learn more about microdermabrasion
Laser Treatment: Laser treatments are becoming increasingly popular and can range from clinical to mild; also, read more about light therapy
Continuously, Proactiv Solution receives raving reviews for their simple three-step process. If you want to try a product that really fights and clears acne bacteria, we recommend Proactiv® Solution.