Options for Acne Treatment

, Options for Acne Treatment

If you have been using non-prescription acne medicines with little or no benefit, consulting our dermatologist may be your best option for clearing up your acne. Over the past few decades, research has uncovered the reasons why some people develop acne as well as better treatments than cutting out oily foods from your diet and using a cream.

The type of treatment our specialist may recommend will depend on several factors, including the severity and type of your acne, your age, and how much time and effort you feel you can commit to the treatment. Some treatments may require washing and applying medication several times a day for several weeks. Other treatments may not be as time-consuming. There are three main types of treatments, including topical treatments that you apply to your acne, internal treatments such as oral medications and therapies such as laser and light treatments.

Topical Treatments

Retinoids and retinoid-like drugs work by preventing plugging of the hair follicles. They include gels, lotions and creams. Retinoid drugs are derived from vitamin A and include adapalene tazarotene and tretinoin. Salicylic acid may help in preventing hair follicles from becoming plugged and is available as both leave-on and wash-off products.

Oral Medications

Antibiotics work by fighting bacteria and reducing inflammation, reducing redness and killing excess skin bacteria. In some cases, a retinoid cream and antibiotics can be used together. We do not recommend taking antibiotics for long periods because you could become antibiotic resistant. To reduce the possibility of developing antibiotic resistance, they are often combined with benzoyl peroxide.

Professional Treatment Sessions

Today, several therapies may reduce acne breakouts, especially when used in combination with other medications. Oftentimes, a combination approach is best when it comes to effectively addressing the condition.

If you have acne, get in touch with our team at Atomic Dermatology in Pasco. Contact our office today for a consultation to discuss your treatment options!

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