Acne is one of the pesky skin problems that most – if not all – people avoid. However, a quick road to recovery does not stand true when it comes to curing acne. Instead, prevention is still the best cure. But if acne has been a problem or fast becoming a problem for you, here are a few acne treatments that are dermatologically-approved that you can try.
1. If your acne is getting worse, you can do electrosurgery
If you’re desperate to get rid of your acne, electrosurgery might be your best option. This method uses bipolar forceps to cut out your acne, dry the area, and finally destroy the tissue to make sure that your acne goes away, at least forever. Don’t worry; this surgery is painless thanks to anesthesia. It’ll also leave your face almost flawless with minimal scarring, and you’d heal in less time compared to other surgical operations to remove acne.
2. Unclog your pores with retinoids
Clogged pores are one of the reasons why you suffer from blackheads, whiteheads, and worse: acne. If you can do with some stinging, itchiness, redness or a bit of dryness, then go for this acne treatment that you can find in topical creams or serums. Don’t worry; retinoids help the skin to regenerate faster so you’ll be able to see results in a few weeks.
3. Antibiotics also work
Dirt and grime on an oily face is a definite disaster for people prone to acne. With that also comes the problem of bacteria living and growing in number on your face. If bacteria cause your acne, you can use clindamycin mixed with benzoyl peroxide to reduce your risk of developing resistance to antibiotics. Topical antibiotics won’t work alone and are not recommended.
4. Use some acids
Now don’t get this wrong. You can dry your acne fast and kill bacteria using two potent acids: azelaic and salicylic.
Azelaic acid has natural antibacterial properties that make it effective at treating acne. However, you might suffer from minor skin irritation and some discoloration. Salicylic helps prevent your pores from being clogged with dirt, but its effectiveness is somewhat limited.
5. Chemical peels are for mild cases
If you have a mild or moderate case of acne, you may consider chemical peels to help your face exfoliate dead skin cells, reduce dark spots and skin pigmentation, and ultimately remove your acne. Electrosurgery using bipolar forceps also does this. But since chemical peels use peeling agents like glycolic acid, retinoic acid, or salicylic acid, you might find your skin more sensitive to sunlight. The advantage though? Chemical peels will make you look fresher by revealing your brighter skin underneath.
6. Oral medications also work but beware
A lot of over-the-counter medicines also work in treating acne. However, you need to consult your doctor if you want to take this option. For example, Accutane is very effective at treating acne, but it’s dangerous for pregnant women and can affect one’s liver function and increase the risk of sunburn. Spironolactone is also the same but with the added benefit of preventing hair loss and excessive hair growth on your face and body.
When it comes to curing acne, prevention is still the best cure. Keep your face clean by washing it with mild or antibacterial soap and water to get rid of dirt and grime that may clog your pores. Before you consider any of these acne treatments, make sure that you talk to your doctor or dermatologist first.
