Acne: General Information and Types of Cure

 

Acne can be a cause of distraught, especially if it grows on areas that are easily spotted, such as the face. There are various treatments that can relieve the problem. However, the treatments that you will require will depend on the severity of your acne and on what treatments you may be allergic to. You also have to consider the possible side effects that some of them may pose.

For more information on what acne is, sources of acne, types of acne blemishes. Visit 4woman.org.

Cleansers

The most basic of these acne cures are the cleansers. Well, they would certainly work better as a means of prevention but they could at least help clean up the area to prevent further infection. Soap and water may help in the cleansing, but do not really contribute to the clearing up of acne. When washing, do make sure that you don’t scrub the area aggressively because this practice may cause more irritation. Other cleansers that you may also use are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur. Each of these works as both cleanser and acne treatment. Alcohol may also be used to cleanse the area but can cause dryness.

Exfoliants

There are cleansers that also act as exfoliants, such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid. Exfoliants prevent further buildup of dry skin. They should work better than abrasive cloths when acne is already present.

Topical Creams

Topical anti-bacterial creams and solutions, such as benzoyl peroxide may be applied to help cure acne. An over the counter product with benzoyl peroxide should be enough to treat mild acne. Such a product will not dry your skin because it will not inhibit sebum production, but it does have a bleaching effect that you may need to take note of. You may need to wait for about four weeks to notice some results. 

Oral Antibiotics

Some acne sufferers make use of oral antibiotics. These systemic antibiotics clear the bacteria that cause acne, while also reducing inflammation. They are usually prescribed by dermatologists when there is deep-seated acne that cannot be reached by topical antibiotics. The problem with oral antibiotics is that they also present more side effects. They also increase the risks of skin bacteria developing antibiotic resistance. So, they are best used with benzoyl peroxide, which takes care of the bacteria problem.Despite their stronger potency, oral antibiotics will still need weeks or even months to cure acne. They should not be ingested by pregnant women. Amoxicillin is sometimes used for the treatment of acne.

External Retinoids

External retinoids can clear up moderate to severe acne. They are able to do this by making sure that the skin grows and sheds as it normally should. Retinoids are usually found in topical formulations that make use of other ingredients. They are not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women. They may also cause dryness, itchiness and redness among other side effects.

The stronger formulation of isotretinoin is effective on severe cystic acne. It has, however, been associated with inflammatory bowel disease, depression, and even suicide. Note though that studies have not yet confirmed the associations. It is also worth noting that most people can take isotretinoin well. 

Hormonal Treatments

Hormonal treatments, in the form of birth control pills, basically aim to counteract present male hormones. Their acne fighting effects will be noticed within three to four months. Those who are taking pills may have to contend with possible side effects, such as breast tenderness, weight gain, spotting, and more.