Killing the bacteria that grow in the blocked follicles. This can be done by ingesting antibiotic medication, or by putting antibiotics on the skin. Antibiotics act quickly and are a powerful way of temporarily getting rid of acne. When the body develops a resistance to the antibiotics, the bacteria returns stronger than before.
Removing oil on the skin can be done by taking drugs that contain Vitamin A. Accutane is the name of the most famous treatment using massive quantities of Vitamin A.
Removing dead skin cells can be done by treatment with salicylic acid. This encourages the skin to peel away the top layer of cells.
Popping a pimple should not be done by anyone but a qualified dermatologist. Pimple popping irritates skin, can make the bacteria spread, and can cause scars. If you must pop a pimple yourself, it is advised to apply warm water to the area before popping it and to wash your hand thoroughly before beginning so as to avoid spreading bacteria via the hands. Applying hot water will open up the pores and reduce the damage because it will require less force to pop it.
Treating acne can improve physical symptoms, in addition to improving self-esteem or lessening acne-related anxiety and depression.
Some medications may take 4 to 8 weeks to take effect, so it is important to adhere to a treatment plan agreed upon by you and your medical provider, even if you do not observe immediate results. Even after results become noticeable, continuing to pursue treatment can help prevent further breakouts.
Cases of mild acne can often be treated with over-the-counter medications. Products containing benzoyl peroxide (Brevoxyl or Triaz) or salicylic acid (Propa pH or Stridex) help to clear up skin. Gently cleansing with warm water and mild soap (Dove, or Cetaphil) can also help clear up mild acne.
Acne that may be caused by hormonal flare-ups prior to menstruation may also be controlled with low-dose birth control pills containing estrogen.
If these treatments for mild acne are not effective, you may need stronger prescription medications or a combination of several different therapies. Mild to moderate acne can be treated by:
Draining large pimples and cysts by a medical provider
Using prescription antibiotic gels, creams, or lotions applied to the affected area
Using prescription retinoids applied to the affected area
Applying azelaic acid to the affected area
Taking oral antibiotics
Taking oral retinoids (isotretinoin) – this is the only medication approved for severe cystic acne, but has serious side effects such as mood disorders, depression, and suicidal ideation
Antibiotics that have been successful in treating acne include doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, erythromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, and azithromycin.
Certain therapies can be combined in the treatment of acne, such as combination of oral antibiotics and topical retinoids.
Severe acne may leave scars. Although some scars go away with time on their own, scars can be removed via laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, or other treatment by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
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