The Best Ways to Treat Acne  

Of all the skincare issues that people encounter, acne is the most common one. It’s rather trivial to experience an acne breakout some but at times, it can be a very serious skin issue. There a lot of acne treatments available right now. Some can be bought over-the-counter while others can only be bought with a prescription of a licensed dermatologist. 

Teenagers are the ones that are affected by acne breakouts the most, and the condition may still continue up until they reach 20 years old. There are some people that are still affected by acne breakouts even if they’re already in their 30s.  

How to Treat Acne 

Acne can be treated in different ways and if you ask an Avon dermatology expert, the best solution for you is the one that conforms to your skin’s condition the most. Each medication for acne is recommended according to the severity of the issue.  

There are certain treatments that can remove all the oil and dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. These are the elements that usually clog pores and cause acne breakouts. Other treatments, on the other hand, are intended to disrupt the cystic formation of acne. There are also acne treatments that attack the Propionibacterium, which is a kind of bacteria that is found on the skin and may cause acne growth.  

Acne Treatment Options 

There are several over-the-counter medications for acne. Although self-medication is not at all encouraged, these are some of the options that are available to you to possibly address the issue. However, it’s still best that you consult with a dermatologist for proper guidance.  

1. Retinoids 

Retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives that are effective against whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. It can address severe and inflammatory acne with proper use. They mainly work by exfoliating the clogged pores of the skin. There are prescription and over-the-counter variants of retinoids although the former is the more common type.  

2. Benzoyl Peroxide  

Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial substance. When used on acne-prone skin, it works to fight the germs that contribute to acne growth. It also works by drying the acne, thereby inhibiting its growth. Like retiniods, benzoyl peroxide is available over the counter and by prescription.  

3. Antibiotics  

There are topical antibiotics that work like creams and can be applied to the skin. They also fight the bacteria that contribute to acne breakout. In rare occasions, a dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics that are taken orally. The most common oral antibiotics for acnes are erythromycin, tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline. As or topical antibiotics, the ones used are sodium sulfacetamide, clindamycin, azelaic acid, and many other types of topical sulfur products.  

Regardless of what type of acne treatment you want to use, it is best that you consult with a dermatologist for proper guidance. You may buy the over-the-counter versions and use them as directed but you can never obtain oral antibiotics without proper prescription. Even if you do, there’s a special dosage that’s recommended for your skin condition and overall health. Never skip talking with your doctor for your own safety.