Acne Medication and Advice: Basic Training

Mild to moderate acne can often be treated with over-the-counter products. Severe conditions should be diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist, who will utilize prescription medicines. Even if the acne is moderate, a prescription medicine may be more effective than what is available over-the-counter.

A professional dermatologist can offer knowledgeable suggestions on how best to handle your condition and prescribe medications based on the exact kind of acne you have.

There are 2 categories -- oral and topical -- of prescription acne medicines. Antibiotics, which can be taken orally or as a lotion -- are commonly used to fight acne. Topical prescription medications usually contain ingredients like zinc or retinoids.

Antibiotics

Tetracycline, the most common antibiotic used for treating acne, is used to kill the bacteria responsible for acne. It also reduces inflammation. Antibiotics may take weeks or even months to effectively treat your acne. Then you have to continue the medication even after the acne has healed.

Tetracycline can increase vaginal yeast infections in women. Pregnant women and children under age 12 (it discolors growing teeth) shouldn't take tetracycline.

Sensitivity to sunlight that results in bad sunburns is a common side effect associated with tetracycline. Other side effects include hives, vertigo and upset stomach.

Ointments

Antibiotic ointments, which are effective in killing the bacteria that causes acne, present fewer problems than oral antibiotics. When used in conjunction with other topical treatments, like benzoyl peroxide, the bacteria are less apt to develop a resistance to antibiotics.

Retinoids

Retinoids, a derivative from vitamin A, can be applied directly to the skin as a lotion or cream. Topical retinoid medicines help treat blackheads and whiteheads by opening clogged pores. Dry skin sometimes occurs with its use.

For the more severe forms of acne that don't respond to other treatments, oral retinoids are an option. Oral retinoids open the pores by causing the top layer of the skin to peel away. The body also produces less sebum, the substance that causes oily skin, when they are taken.

Several serious side effects are associated with oral retinoids. Ongoing medical supervision is necessary to monitor the patient's response to retinoid treatment. They can cause birth defects, if taken by pregnant women. If they're under retinoid treatment women must use 2 forms of birth control. They can also cause depression and liver damage.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills, and other medications that alter hormone levels, can reduce acne by changing the levels of testosterone in the body. This is sometimes an effective treatment for women.

Zinc

Zinc, a relatively new treatment, has shown some good results in some patients.

It's always best to discuss your acne condition with a doctor before treating it or any unusual skin condition on your own. Even though acne is usually a short-term harmless condition, life-long scarring can occur. Always have a professional dermatologist determine the most effective treatment for your specific case.