subject: Treatments Of Acne [print this page] When skin pores clogged with oil and dead skin become infected with bacteria, you can expect to see the common skin problem called acne. Teenagers often have this problem, but it can last well into adult years. The extent of the problem largely depends on the individual; some people don't mind a little acne while others are deeply bothered by it. Proper treatment for this condition depends on the severity of the acne.
Many lotions and gels can be put on blemishes or all over the face in order to treat acne. Many soaps and scrubs are designed to treat acne various parts of the body, like the chest or back. Oral medications can also be prescribed for acne treatment. All these types of treatments can be combined to create an effective regimen. Doctors often combine these treatments to prevent drug-resistant bacteria.
Most people have only mild cases of acne, small amounts of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads on areas of their face or body. In cases such as this, it's easy to treat acne on your own. Gently washing the face with mild soap and warm water, and products with either benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid are effective treatments for mild acne. If these treatments don't work, it's best to see a doctor. They may prescribe stronger creams and lotions, like an antibiotic lotion. The doctor may give you lotions with medications in them that unclog pores.
It's important to remember that most acne treatments take time to work. Typically, results are not seen until 6 to 8 weeks has passed since the start of treatment. Many acne treatments cause the condition to get worse before it gets better.
If the doctors recommended treatment has not given you results, they may prescribe oral retinoid, a vitamin A treatment. These oral medications are considered a last resort, because they are expensive and have rare but serious side effects.
Women who are affected by acne before menstruation have the option to take low-dose birth control pills to control these flare-ups.
Acne often leaves behind scars in moderate and severe cases. While scars can shrink and fade with time, the scars can still deeply affect people the same way that their acne had before it was taken under control. Those who are particularly bothered by acne scars seek treatment from their doctor, who will likely recommend a visit to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to find treatments for them. Demabrasion and laser resurfacing are some common treatments for reducing the appearance of acne scars.
