Topical Treatment for Acne
1- Retinoids
This class of topical products are the “first line” and “the gold standard” treatment for acne. It is a topical Vitamin A that helps to control active acne, treat acne scars, and prevent and correct skin aging, among many other benefits and usage in medicine.
2- Antibiotic treatment for acne (topical or oral)
The major use of antibiotics for acne is to control the infection caused by a bacteria called P. acne. Commonly used antibiotics for acne are as follows:
Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Minocycline
Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Azithromycin
Sodium sulfacetamide
Ampicillin, Keflex
Dapsone (Aczone)
3- Chemical Peels
Topical acids can be effective treatment options for acne if it is done right. Acne-specific chemical peels, such as salicylic acid, at different strengths, are a type of acne treatment that we offer at our office. This can help control active acne and promote skin rejuvenation, including the correction of acne-related skin discoloration and scars.
Acids commonly used to treat acne are:
Salicylic acid peel for active acne
Glycolic acid peel for active acne and scarring
TCA (trichloroacetic acid) cross to correct acne scar
Acids have the following properties:
Anti-Keratinization
Antibacterial
Anti-inflammatory
Discoloration
4- Azelaic acid (Azelex)
Azelaic acid is a unique compound. It occurs naturally in the skin and is well tolerated by most people, and it can be safely used for years at a time. It does not cause sun sensitivity or significant local irritation. However, dryness or lightening of the skin where it is applied is possible. It can easily be combined with other acne products such as Benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, and/or tretinoin.
5- Steroids for acne
Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents used to control inflammation of severe cystic or nodular acne. Improper use of steroids might outweigh the benefit – therefore, any type of steroid must be used only under a doctor’s supervision.
Topical use
It can be administered topically to control acne-related swelling, redness, and pain related to inflammation.
Steroid injection
Frequently, steroids are injected in stubborn, persistent cystic acne lesions. This is one of the unique options for persistent cystic acne.
Oral Steroid use
Oral steroids are rarely used to control inflammation, but they are only used for a limited time.
6- Acne Soothing Masks
Some of the masks we use are specially made for acne. They kill bacteria, decrease the oiliness of the skin, and have a soothing effect by controlling skin inflammation (swelling, redness, and associated pain). Masks may be applied after extractions or microdermabrasions to facilitate the healing process after these procedures. We offer a variety of masks that nourish your skin with vitamins, minerals, and topical healing.