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.
  • Steroid Treatment: Occasionally, when dealing with high levels of swelling, a topical steroid treatment may be prescribed for pimples. An example treatment is a Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection ; this is often a prescription treatment for acne
  • Retinoids: Retinoids in either a topical or oral treatment have been shown to reduce the spread of acne.
    1. Adapalene
    2. Tazarotene
    3. Topical Retinoids
    4. Isotretinoin
    5. 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
  • DIY Acne Treatments:
  • Acne Surgery:
  • Acne Treatments Based on Skin Types:


If you are looking for immediate results, learn about Fast Acne Treatments

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