Acne Treatment Options

Acne can make you very self-conscious. While it is the bane of many teens' existence, it can happen to people of any age. Treatment has come a long way and Dr. David Kessler of Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY offers their patients with acne hope for clear skin.

Acne Treatment Options

The type of treatment that you will be offered for your acne will depend on the type of acne you have and the severity of your condition. Acne comes in three forms:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Pus-filled cysts

All of them respond to some treatments better than others. 

Benzoyl Peroxide 

Benzoyl peroxide has been used for more than 50 years in the treatment of acne. It can be found in over-the-counter cleansers and treatments as well as prescription strength. Because it is toxic to the bacteria that cause acne, the bacteria never become resistant to it, which is a good thing. These products not only kill the bacteria, but they help reduce oil and help with the shedding of skin cells. It works on inflammatory acne rather than white and blackhead. 

Salicylic Acid 

Salicylic acid reduces acne by exfoliating the skin. A beta hydroxy acid helps to clear pores. It performs best on mild acne in the form of blackheads and whiteheads. Penetrating the skin, it melts the skin cells that are clogging the pores.

Antibiotic Medications

Antibiotic medications can be prescribed that are either topical or oral. They kill the bacteria that cause acne. Doxycycline and erythromycin are two antibiotics that reduce inflammation from acne. The problem with antibiotics is the potential to develop resistance. They should be taken for the shortest possible time and in combination with other treatments to get the best results.

Tretinoin Medication

Tretinoin is used as a cream and is a retinoic acid. It is a form of synthetic Vitamin A. It is prescription strength, and it irritates the skin, which sounds counterproductive, but the reality is that it causes the skin cells to turn over quicker, which helps.

Extraction

This procedure uses sterile tools to remove the contents of clogged pores. This method is often used with a facial treatment.

Dr. Kessler of Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY offers hope for patients with acne. Don't suffer needlessly, give our office a call at (516) 799-1600 to make an appointment today.