Treatment

Acne Vulgaris - Treatment

Acne treatment depends on whether you have a mild, moderate, or severe form. Sometimes your doctor will combine treatments to get the best results and to avoid developing drug-resistant bacteria. Treatment could include lotions or gels you put on blemishes or sometimes entire areas of skin, such as the chest or back (topical medications). You might also take medications by mouth (oral medications).
Mild acne
Treatment for mild acne may include:
Gentle cleansing with a mild soap (such as Dove or Neutrogena).
Applying benzoyl peroxide (such as Benoxyl, Benzac, or Clearasil).
Applying salicylic acid (such as Clearasil, Propa pH, or Stri-Dex).
If these treatments do not work, you may want to see your doctor. Your doctor can give you a prescription for stronger lotions or creams. You may try an antibiotic lotion. Or you may try a lotion with medicine that helps to unplug your pores.
Moderate to severe acne
Sometimes acne needs treatment with stronger medications or a combination of therapies. Deeper blemishes, such as nodules and cysts, are more likely to leave scars. As a result, your doctor may give you oral antibiotics sooner to start the healing process. Inflammatory acne may need a combination of several therapies. Treatment for moderate to severe acne may include:
Applying benzoyl peroxide.
Draining of large pimples and cysts by a health professional.
Applying prescription antibiotic gels, creams, or lotions.
Applying prescription retinoids.
Applying azelaic acid.
Taking prescription oral antibiotics.
Taking prescription oral retinoids (such as Accutane).