10 Best Acne Treatments as Per Dermatologists

Mar 12, 2020   Dr. Preeti Talwar AcneAsk a Dermatologist

Acne is a universal concern for both young and old irrespective of age and genderIt is not only a problem faced by the skin but also a sign that the body is uneasy inside-out.

Adult acne is the worst and hard to treat. The market is full ofacne treatments ranging from acne face cleansers, creams, and spot treatments. With the increasing number of choices, it becomes difficult to choose the rightacne solution.

Since dermatologists know best, we have compiled a list of ten best acne treatments commonly recommended by them. But before we jump to the solution, it is crucial to understand what causes acne.

Acne Treatments as Per Dermatologists

Causes of Acne

Pus filled pimples result when oil and dead cells combine and form a plug on the skin leading to blocked pores. At times there is bacterial infection along with blocked pores leading to papules, pustules, and cystic lesions. The bacteria P. acnes gets trapped in these pores and multiplies leading to painful inflammations.

Dermatologists have seen people respond to different products differently. So they have graded the acne according to severity. They have grouped them from 1-4 to see what treatment works for each individual. The treatment ranges from topical, oral or both depending on the severity of acne.

Topical acne cream or gel is a common acne treatment. It involves either killing off acne-causing bacteria or getting rid of acne by controlling sebum production. The ingredients of topical acne treatments may contain retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, or salicylic acid.

Oral acne treatment treats red and swollen pimples. They take the form of antibiotics (which kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation), birth control pills (useful in curing hormonal acne), and Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, which is helpful in treating cystic acne.

Now, let’s see which are the ten best acne treatments for treating moderate to severe acne-

Salicylic Acid: It is the best remedy for fixing teen acne and is an important ingredient found in acne cleansers. Salicylic is a Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that helps in getting rid of excess oil and exfoliating dead skin cells.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to lessen the swelling during a cystic acne breakout. Compared to an acne wash, it gives a better result when used as a toner, moisturizer or leave-on spot treatment. It gets more time to work compared to a face wash which is washed immediately after application. Salicylic acid has drying properties so it shouldn’t be overused on the skin.

Glycolic Acid: It is an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that is used in acne washes to exfoliate dead skin cells. These cells tend to block or clog the pores which lead to acne. Glycolic acid is a key ingredient found in acne cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and peels.

Benzoyl Peroxide: It has anti-bacterial properties that help in killing acne-causing bacteria which causes acne breakouts. Products containing 2% Benzoyl peroxide are suitable for the skin, higher concentrations can cause skin drying.

Retinol: It is a synthesized form of Vitamin A and is useful in clearing acne. Retinoids help in exfoliating the skin and controlling excess oil at a faster rate. It is also anti-inflammatory in nature, known to calm acne inflammations.

Retinols is a topical acne treatment that also helps in preventing new breakouts and hyperpigmentation. It is not suitable for sensitive skin types; as slight skin irritation may occur.

Sulfur: It is useful in drying out pimples and whiteheads. It helps to get rid of excess oil from the skin. It has an awful smell of rotten eggs, so it is used in combination with other active ingredients which help to mask the bad odor.

Treatments for Severe Acne

Dapsone Gel: It has both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which is useful in treating whiteheads, blackheads, and pus-filled pimples. Sometimes it is used along with other acne treatments. It should be used with care as it can dry the skin out if overused.

Cortisone Shot: A shot of cortisone can help get rid of acne in 24 to 48 hours. Cortisone helps in curbing inflammation and preventing cystic acne breakouts. But one should be careful while getting this shot. If administered incorrectly, it can leave a small depression on the skin, which takes weeks to heal.

Birth Control Pills: Acne breakouts could be due to hormonal imbalance or overproduction of sebum. Birth control pills contain progestin and estrogen which help to keep hormones in check and prevent acne breakouts. They are prescribed under oral acne treatments.

Spironolactone: At times, birth control pills aren’t sufficient to balance hormones, so spironolactone are added which is an androgen blocker. These spironolactone pills prescribed along with contraceptive pills can help treat cystic acne.

This drug is prescribed to women having PCOS to relieve androgen-related symptoms like acne, excess sebum production, and excess hair growth.

Isotretinoin: It is the best treatment for people suffering from cystic acne and body acne, which doesn’t respond to any other medication. At least six to eight months are required to get good results.

The medicine should be used with caution as it can cause dryness of lips, nose, and even make your nose bleed. It is not recommended for pregnant or lactating ladies.

As the saying goes, ‘If you are stressed, you get pimples. If you cry, you get wrinkles.’ So, smile, be patient and commit to a good skincare regime to effectively flaunt your dimples.

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