By Mace Laith
When it comes to acne treatment, I’ve seen it all, believe me, including DIY solutions that have done more harm than good. Having acne and trying to treat yourself can be stressful, but with the right knowledge, it becomes less of a battle and more of a manageable process. So many people have asked me the best dermatological approved ways to treat acne so I have taken some time to put together some of the most effective methods that we use today.
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against acne. They include creams, gels, lotions and serums that contain active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. Benzoyl peroxide works wonders by killing the bacteria that cause acne, while salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are particularly effective in preventing new acne breakouts and can also have an anti-aging effect. I’ve seen many patients experience dramatic improvements with these topicals, especially when they’re used consistently.
Moving on to oral medications, these would normally be prescribed for more severe cases of acne. Antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline can help reduce inflammation and bacterial growth. For women, hormonal treatments such as oral contraceptives or spironolactone are sometimes used to regulate hormones that contribute to acne. Isotretinoin, commonly known by the brand name Accutane, is another strong option. It’s reserved for severe cystic acne and works by shrinking the oil glands in the skin. Though it requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects, it can provide incredible transformations in patients’ skin with isotretinoin.
One of the newer players in acne treatment is laser therapy and light-based treatments. These methods target the deeper layers of the skin without affecting the surface. Laser treatments can reduce the size of the oil glands and even stimulate collagen production, which is beneficial for acne scar removal Bangkok. Light-based therapies, like blue light, specifically target the bacteria that cause acne. Many of my patients appreciate these options because they are non-invasive and usually come with minimal downtime.
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are great for treating both active acne and its aftermath. Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that encourages the top layer to peel away, revealing fresher, less blemished skin underneath. Microdermabrasion, on the other hand, gently exfoliates the skin using a device that removes dead skin cells. Both methods can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars, which is something many people look for after their breakouts have cleared.
By the way, let’s not forget the importance of a good skincare routine and believe it or not washing more often can work wonders, especially in men. I often tell my patients that their daily habits can significantly impact their skin health. The foundation should be to use a gentle cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, and sunscreen every day to prevent further irritation and damage. I also advise against over-cleansing or using harsh products, as these can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate acne.
Each person’s skin is unique, so it’s always best to personalize treatments to fit individual skin types and problems. Whether it’s through topical applications, oral medications, or advanced treatments like lasers, the goal is to find a regimen that works best for the patient. Make sure you are consistent with your skincare routine and have patience, as skin improvements do take time.
