Treatment Options for Acne

Approximately 17 million people in the United States deal with acne on a daily basis. It is the most common disorder of the skin, and an estimated 80 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 30 will suffer through outbreaks of acne at some point in their lives. For the majority of people, acne troubles gradually begin to disappear during their twenties, and completely fade away by the time they reach their thirties. Some people, however, continue to struggle with this skin disorder for the rest of their lives. Acne, although not generally a serious health threat, can cause years of emotional distress and lead to permanent scarring in severe cases.

Acne is a disorder that affects the skin's pores, follicles, and oil glands. Oil glands produce a substance called sebum, which carries dead skin cells through the follicles and out through the pores on the surface of the skin. When the follicles or pores become clogged, bacteria grow and a pimple develops. Most pimples appear on the face, neck, chest, and back, although they can occur nearly anywhere on the body. Treatment of acne varies and depends on the severity of the outbreak and the suspected cause of the pimples.

Early treatment of existing acne and prevention of new outbreaks is the best way to prevent scarring. Treatment can consist of over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and natural remedies. Often, a combination of these is most effective. Treatment is generally aimed at preventing the abnormal clumping of cells in the skin follicles, decreasing oil production, and reducing inflammation and the growth of bacteria.

The first step in treating your acne is to visit a dermatologist. Together, you can decide the best course of action for treating your outbreaks and reducing the risk of future scarring. There truly is no need to suffer through the embarrassment of acne with so many treatment options available today.

In cases of mild acne, doctors usually suggest a topical over-the-counter or prescription medication, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur. Topical medications generally have only mild side effects such as drying or irritation of the skin where the medicine is applied. When the acne is moderate or severe, topical medications are generally used in combination with oral medications such as vitamin A derivatives and oral antibiotics. Side effects from these medications can be more severe than those from the topical preparations, and can include itching, dry eyes, sensitivity to the sun, nosebleeds, and changes in liver function.

Many people, either because they do not want to take prescription medications, or because they cannot tolerate the side effects, turn to natural or herbal treatments for their acne. Tea tree oil, which has antiseptic and antifungal properties, has long been used by many for the treatment of acne, and studies have shown it to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide. Honey also has antimicrobial benefits, and many people see a reduction in their acne after applying honey to pimples before bed at night.