Acne Treatment

How Is Acne Treated?

Acne is often treated by dermatologists (doctors who specialize in skin problems). These doctors treat all kinds of acne, particularly severe cases. Doctors who are general or family practitioners, pediatricians or internists may treat patients with milder cases acne.

The goals of treatment are to heal existing lesions, stop new lesions from forming, prevent scarring and minimize the psychological stress and embarrassment caused by this disease. Drug treatment is aimed at reducing several problems that play a part in causing acne:

Abnormal clumping of cells in the follicles
Increased oil production
Bacteria
Inflammation

Depending on the extent of the problem, the doctor may recommend one of several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and/or prescription medicines. Some of these medicines may be topical (applied to the skin), and others may be oral (oral by mouth). The doctor may suggest using more than one topical medicine or combining oral and topical medicines.

Treatment for Blackheads, Whiteheads and Mild Inflammatory Acne

Doctors usually recommend an PTC or prescription topical medicine for people with mild signs of acne. Topical medicine is applied directly to the acne lesions or to the entire area of affected skin.

There are several OTC topical medicines used for mild acne. Each works a little differently. Following are the most common ones:

Benzoyl peroxide – destroys P.acnes and may also reduce oil production.
Resorcinol – can help break down blackheads and whiteheads.
Salicylic acid – helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. Also helps cut down the shedding of cells lining the hair follicles.
Sulphur – helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.

Topical OTC medicines are available in many forms, such as gels, lotions, creams, soaps or pads. In some people, OTC acne medicines may cause side effects such as skin irritation, burning or redness, which often get better or go away with continued use of the medicine. If you experience severe or prolonged side effects, you should report them to your doctor.

OTC topical medicines are somewhat effective in treating acne when used regularly; however, it may take up to 8 weeks before you see noticeable improvement.

Try adding Rosewater or Rosehip Oil to your acne skin care routine. Because of its natural content of Vitamin A, Rosehip Oil is very good for all kinds of skin infections such as acne, pimples and boils.

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