Treatment
Acne
Self-Care and Over-the-Counter Treatments
For mild acne, self-care and over-the-counter treatments are often effective. These include:
- Cleansing: Washing affected areas no more than twice daily with a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water.
- Topical Treatments: Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids can reduce acne.
- Non-comedogenic Products: Using water-based, non-comedogenic skincare products to avoid clogging pores.
Prescription Treatments
For moderate to severe acne, prescription treatments may be necessary. These include:
Topical Treatments
- Topical Retinoids: Promote cell turnover to prevent clogged pores.
- Topical Antibiotics: Reduce bacterial colonization and inflammation.
- Azelaic Acid: Helps to clear pores and reduce inflammation.
Oral Medications
- Antibiotics: Such as tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline, are used for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Hormonal Treatments: Oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications can help manage hormonal acne.
- Isotretinoin: A potent oral retinoid for severe cases, which requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Advanced Treatments and Therapies
For persistent or severe acne, additional therapies might include:
- Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation in severe acne.
- Laser and Light Therapy: To treat acne scars by stimulating new skin growth.
- Chemical Peels: To remove the top layer of skin, promoting the growth of new, smoother skin.
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