Understanding acne treatment for a flawless glow

Acne is an inflammatory condition of the sebaceous glands of the follicles of the skin, which is marked by comedones or whiteheads and blackheads, papules and pustules. It is very common in teenagers. Acne usually affects the face, chest, shoulder, and back. In a few cases cyst, nodules and scarring also occur. The best acne treatment includes:

• Inhibition of sebum production
• Checking bacterial growth
• Encourages shedding of old skin cells to help open the clogged pores.

Choose acne treatment with great care as it may have side effects.

Causes:

The major factors that cause acne are:

• oil production in excess
• clogged hair follicles, due to dead cells or oil
• bacterial infections
• excess androgenic or hormonal activity

Non-prescription treatment:

• Soap and water: Gentle cleaning of face with water and soap helps in preventing acne, however, it does not cure the acne is already there. Apply soap, not more than twice in a day.
• Cleanser
• Benzoyl peroxide: It is useful for mild cases of acne. Benzoyl peroxide usually destroys the bacteria that causes acne. It usually starts working within four weeks of its application. If Benzoyl peroxide is not used regularly then the acne returns. Benzoyl peroxide makes the skin dry and can bleach your clothes if it comes in contact with them.
• Sulfur: It has only small results when it comes to acne and has very strong odor also.
• Salicylic acid: It helps in shedding of skin and unclogging pores. For better results, it must be applied every day. Once it’s stopped acne tends to reappear.
• Topical retinol gel: It usually takes 8-12 weeks for the retinol gel to work. Sometimes the symptoms aggravate before getting better.
• Alcohol and acetone: The alcohol and acetone have very little or no effect on acne. They make the skin dry, however.
• Herbal or organic medicines: No known evidence of its mechanism of action or results.

Prescription treatments:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used either locally or orally to reduce the inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are mostly used along with Benzoyl peroxide. The local application of antibiotics has better results than oral antibiotics.
• Retinoid or vitamins A derivative: Retinoid is a vitamin A derived compound that helps in controlling skin growth and skin shredding. It is used either orally or sometimes locally. Oral doses are not advisable for pregnant and lactating women. Retinol works best when given along with antibiotics and Benzoyl peroxide.
• Azelaic acid: It is used locally as a cream or gel because of its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is useful in cases of rosacea, but can also be useful for mild acne.
• Dapsone: It is usually used for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Oral contraceptive: It acts by counteracting against the acne-causing hormones thus preventing acne. It cannot be used for more than three to four months. It has lots of side effects on the recipient.
• Spironolactone: It blocks the body’s hormone on the skin oil gland. Especially suitable for acne during or before the menstrual cycle.