The most common home treatment
for acne is twice daily application of a benzoyl peroxide solution
such as Neutrogena On-The-Spot. This works by killing bacteria,
drying up the oil, and causing your skin to peel. It is effective
for minor acne (whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples).
Prescription or over-the-counter antibiotics like Stri-dex
or Oxywork kill the bacteria which, with oil, causes acne.
For an even more surefire acne treatment, your doctor may suggest
chemical skin peeling, removal of scars by dermabrasion or laser,
or removal or drainage of cysts.
Synthetic Vitamin A derivatives, or retinoids, are for severe
acne, which take the form of redness, nodules and cysts. Retinoids
include creams and gels such as Retin-A and isotretinoin pills
- Accutane. Accutane is an effective acne treatment in that
it works to reduce the size and production of oil glands in
the skin. Its effects are unbeatable and last a long time –
six months – which is why it is so expensive ($450 per bottle).
Pregnant and sexually active women must avoid retinoids, because
they cause severe birth defects.
Laser resurfacing is the newest way to remove acne and acne
scar tissue, among other uses. It is showing itself to be a
very effective means of clearing up acne permanently, and is
quickly surpassing dermabrasion in popularity. It works by vaporizing
unwanted tissue, clearing the way for new healthy skin cells
to grow.
