Treating Acne - A How-To Guide

Treating acne is probably one of the most unwelcome activities of every teenager. Until maturity is reached - and often after, acne is a serious problem for anyone who wants to look good. Fortunately there are several ways of treating acne and, in some cases, getting rid of it completely. However, not all of them can and should be used – some of them, like taking antibiotics and laser surgery are reserved only for the most severe cases.

1. Cosmetics to use

In most cases cosmetics used in treating acne take the form of anti-acne lotions and tonics that should be put on the pimples. They remove excess oil from the skin and unclog the pores. Most of them have also a mild anti-inflammatory effect. In most cases such products are enough to get rid of non-severe acne.

2. Cosmetics to avoid

Avoiding certain cosmetics and lotions may sometimes do more good than using anti-acne lotions. Stop using all cosmetics, lotions or sunscreens that contain oil. Use only those that are oil-free. This will greatly reduce the severity of acne.

3. Exfoliating

If cosmetics are not enough, it is a good idea to exfoliate your dead skin cells layer. As it reduces the number of dead cells to clog the pores, it will probably greatly improve your skin’s state, especially if done along with using anti-acne lotions.

3. Birth-control pills (women only)

Another, very effective, method of treating acne is taking birth-control pills. As they reduce the amount of androgens in the body, they prevent oil glands from producing oil. This stops acne before it begins. Birth-control pills are available only for prescription and should be taken only under the control of your gynecologist. For obvious reasons this method is limited to women only.

4. Antibiotics and other prescription-only medications

In severe cases, dermatologists often treat acne with antibiotics (usually mynocycline), intending to prevent acne by killing bacteria. This method is very effective, but the side effects of long antibiotic treatments can’t be overlooked. As the causes of acne lie in lack of the hormonal balance, not in the bacteria themselves, the treatment may last a few months or even years and once it is stopped, the acne will return.

There are also a few other prescription-only anti-acne medications used in treating acne: retinoid acid and Accutane. The first unblocks the oil glands and prevents new pimples. It is usually used at night, as it increases a chance to get sunburned. The second medication is used only in the most severe acne cases and its side effects are dangerous enough for many physicians to refuse prescribing Accutane.

5. Laser surgery

Laser surgery is the ultimate way of treating acne. By using small lasers the surgeon gets rid of white- and blackheads as well as acne scars. The operation is quite easy and very safe, but most insurance companies don’t consider it a medical operation, so treating acne by laser surgery can be rather expensive.