Publisher's Synopsis
Treatments of Acne
If you've tried over-the-counter (nonprescription) acne remedies for many weeks and they haven't helped, inquire about prescription-strength drugs. A dermatologist can assist you:
Control your acne
Avoid scarring or other harm to your skin
Make scars less obvious
Acne treatments operate by lowering oil production and puffiness or by treating bacterial infections. With most prescription acne treatments, you may not notice effects for four to eight weeks. It might take several months or years for your acne to clear up entirely.
The treatment program your doctor suggests depends on your age, the kind and severity of your acne, and what you are ready to commit to. For example, you may need to wash and apply treatments to the afflicted skin twice a day for many weeks. Topical treatments and pharmaceuticals you take by mouth (oral medication) are commonly used in combination. Treatment choices for pregnant women are restricted owing to the possibility of negative effects.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and advantages of drugs and other therapies you are considering. And schedule follow-up consultations with your doctor every three to six months until your skin improves.
