Acne Treatments

Killing the bacteria that are caused by the blocked follicles. This is done either by the intake of antibiotics like tetracyclines, or by treating the affected areas externally with bactericidal substances like benzoyl peroxide. However, reducing the p.acnes bacteria will not, in itself, do anything to reduce the oil secretion that is the initial cause of the blocked follicles. Therefore, acne will generally reappear quite soon after the end of treatment — days later in the case of topical applications, and weeks later in the case of oral antibiotics.

Reducing the secretion of oils from the glands. This is done by a great daily intake of Vitamin A derivates like isotretinoin over a period of a few months. The product is sold by Roche under the names Accutane in USA and Roaccutane in Europe. Isotretinoin has been shown to be very effective in treating severe acne and is effective in up to 80% of the patients. The drug has a much longer effect than anti-bacterial treatments and will often cure acne for good. The treatment requires close medical examination by a dermatologist since the drug has many known side effects. The most common are dry skin and nosebleed. It can also permanently damage the liver and cause depression. The drug also causes birth defects if women become pregnant while taking it.

Exfoliating the skin. The topical treatment salicylic acid for example encourages the peeling of the top layer of skin to prevent a build-up of dead skin cells which combine with skin oil to block pores. It also helps to unblock clogged pores.