When choosing the most effective acne treatment for your skin, it is a good idea to start conservatively by trying out simple, over-the-counter treatments before escalating to more complex regimens and prescription medications. In addition to the use of acne treatment products, you should use skin care products and cosmetics designed to not trigger acne breakouts or clogged pores. If you find that self-treatment is not working, you should speak to a doctor about effective acne treatment. In some cases, you may need to make decisions about the use of medications that can have significant side effects, so it is wise to carefully research these options before beginning treatment.
For many people who experience acne, the most effective acne treatment is the use of a topical skin cream that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These creams are typically available over the counter, are inexpensive, and generally have few side effects. Although it may take a few days or weeks of use to see significant results, these products typically work well for most people. If your acne does not respond to these products, you may wish to speak to a doctor about your concerns.
A doctor may be able to offer you several options for effective acne treatment. He may be able to prescribe retinoid creams, which can be very successful at addressing stubborn acne. If retinoids do not work or you have a bad reaction to them, other options include antibiotic pills as well as laser therapies. In serious cases, you may be prescribed hormonal drugs, including some types of contraceptive pills. Your doctor may also offer you isotretinoin, a powerful drug that can be used in chemotherapy for cancer victims but can also help clear up severe acne.
Your choice of prescription and medical treatments should be made in consultation with your doctor. You may also wish to work with a dermatologist, who will typically have more specialized knowledge of acne treatments. Special care should be taken in deciding to pursue treatment with antibiotics, hormonal treatmentsm or isotretinoin. All of these drugs can have side effects, and isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects if consumed by a pregnant woman.
When evaluating these options, you should consider the seriousness of your acne as well as your current health concerns. If you plan to become pregnant, some oral medications for acne should be avoided. By working with your doctor to try different approaches, you may find a treatment plan that clears your acne without posing a risk to your overall health.