Treatment for Acne

Treatment for Acne

Treatment of acne is designed to prevent formation of new lesions and aid the healing of the old.


Acne can be treated with:

• Self skincare regime
• Use of over the counter medications
• Prescription medicines
• Surgical intervention

Skin care-

• Clean your skin gently with a mild, nondrying soap. Avoid scrubbing. Remove all dirt or make-up before sleeping at night. Avoid repeated skin washing. Wash the face once or twice a day.
• Use a clean cloth to dry the face every day to prevent bacterial re-infection.
• Use steam or warm moist compresses to open up clogged pores.
• Use topical astringents to remove excess oil.
• Hair should be shampooed daily, especially oily hair. Ensure that the hair stays away from the face.
• Avoid touching the face. Wash your hands before and after caring for skin lesions to reduce the chance of infection.
• Try not to squeeze, scratch, pick or rub the pimples. This can lead to skin infections and scarring.
• Avoid wearing tight headbands, helmets and caps.
• Avoid oil based cosmetics. Use water-based or 'noncomedogenic' formulas.
• Identify and avoid anything that aggravates acne. This may include oily foods, lotions and make-up.

Over-the-counter acne medications:

OTC acne medicines dry up the oil or promote skin peeling. They can be applied directly on the affected part of skin. These medicines may contain:

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Sulfur
• Resorcinol
• Salicylic acid.

Prescription medicines for acne:

Antibiotics are helpful to treat acne in some people. They can be taken orally or applied topically.

• Oral antibiotics- tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, erythromycin, trimethoprim, amoxicillin.
• Topical antibiotics- clindamycin, erythromycin, dapsone.

Retinoic acid cream or gel can be used. Isotretinoin can be used for treating cystic acne and scarring.

Minor surgical procedures for acne:

• Photodynamic therapy (laser procedure)
• Chemical skin peeling
• Dermabrasion for removal of scars
• Removal, drainage, or injection of cysts with cortisone

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