Acne is a beauty problem that both men and women face. While for many it may only be an occurrence during puberty, for some, the problem persists even later. If you are one of them and are looking for an apt solution to get rid of pimples, we give you a list of treatments available. But keep in mind, any of these take time to show results. You wouldn t get rid of acne overnight. But you surely will see results in a few weeks.
Over-the-counter medication: If your acne is mild and not a common occurrence, you could opt for OTC medication to counter this problem. Usually, these medications contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid that kill bacteria, dry up the excess sebum producing acne and make your skin peel off. These are available at any chemist in the form of gels, creams, lotions, soaps, etc. Here s all about OTC medication for acne.
Prescription medication: If your acne is severe, you need to consult a dermatologist who will assess the root cause of the problem and suggest a treatment accordingly. Here are a few medicines she may prescribe. But do not self medicate and start using any of these without a doctor s prescription as it may have severe side-effects.
Topical antibiotics: These include erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc), clindamycin (BenzaClin, Duac), sulfacetamide (Klaron) and azelaic acid (Azelex).
Retinoids: Retinoid cream or gel such as tretinoin and adapalene are usually applied to the skin once a day. If you use a retinoid, you must avoid the sun or use a strong sunscreen because it increases your risk of getting sunburnt.
Oral antibiotics: Doctors may start treatment with tetracycline (Sumycin) or one of the related doxycycline (Vibramycin, Oracea) and minocycline (Minocin). Other oral antibiotics that are useful for treating acne are cefadroxil, amoxicillin (Trimox) and the sulfa drugs.
Oral contraceptives: Some contraceptive pills like Estrostep have shown to have modest effectiveness in treating acne.
Spironolactone (Aldactone): This drug blocks androgen (hormone) receptors. It can help some women with resistant acne. However, it can cause breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities and increased potassium levels in the bloodstream.
Cortisone injections: Doctors inject large pimples and cysts with a form of cortisone to make them flatten out fast.
Isotretinoin: Original brand name was Accutane (current generation e.g. Sotret, Claravis). It should be used by people with severe acne, mainly the cystic variety, which has been unresponsive to conventional therapies. The drug has many serious side-effects and requires a number of unique controls before it is prescribed. Before taking isotretinoin, tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has a history of diabetes, asthma, liver disease, heart disease or depression. Isotretinoin must not be taken if you are pregnant because it causes severe birth defects, including malformation of the head and face, mental retardation and severe internal defects of the brain, heart, glands and nervous system. It can also cause miscarriage, premature birth or death of the foetus.
Laser treatment: At times, dermatologists suggest undergoing laser treatment along with medication to see better results or if the medication isn t enough. Based on the severity of the acne they will suggest a treatment option. Lasers are more effective in getting rid of acne scars. Here s what dermatologists recommend.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels are also used along with other treatments to get rid of acne faster. Salicylic peel is one of the most common skin peels for treating active acne. Here are some more types of chemical peels.
Homeopathy: This treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. But it takes time to show results and you need to make sure you eat your medicines on time as prescribed. Some of these include:
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Sulphur: Most often indicated remedy, especially if chronic. The skin is rough and hard and the acne is associated with comedones and constipation.
Sanguinaria: Useful remedy for acne, especially in women with scanty menses and irregular circulation of blood.
Kali bromatum: For acne on the face, neck and shoulders.
Antimonium crudum: Prescribe for small, red pimples on the face. Acne with gastric derangements, thirst and white-coated tongue.
Antimonium tartaricum: Given in cases with tendency to postulation.
Berberis aquifolium: It is useful in persistent acne on rough skin.
Asterias Rubens: For pimples on the face during puberty.
Home remedies: Several herbs are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with acne. Some of these herbs include:
Calendula (pot marigolds): Found in ointments, liquids, and infusions.
German chamomile (wild chamomile): A member of the sunflower family. Often seen in tea form.
Witch hazel (ornamental plant): Its bark and leaves are used as an astringent.
Along with these treatments, it is important to follow a healthy diet as your skin reflects what you eat. Here are a few foods for pimple-free skin. Also make sure you follow a good skincare routine to keep acne away forever.
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