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There are many ways in which acne can be treated effectively. Numerous products in the form of topical creams and gels that treat and control acne are available in the market and promise great benefits. There are also many other treatment options such as hormonal therapy, steroid injections and oral medications such as antibiotic treatment. Medications to care and treat acne-prone skin vary from person to person. One medication that is effective for one person may not provide the same benefits to another.

Common medications to care and treat acne-prone skin come in the form of topical creams and gels such as benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, erythromycin and sodium sulfacetamide. All these have antimicrobial properties that treat acne and destroy acne-causing bacteria. These antimicrobial topical medications are generally effective for minor to moderate cases of acne. In some patients, use of these medications can cause skin dryness.

Hormonal therapy is also one of the common methods to care and treat acne-prone skin in cases wherein topical creams and gels are found to be ineffective. This is by controlling the hormone androgen which is responsible for the excessive secretion of sebum by the follicles that cause acne. Treatment is done by oral intake of estrogen-containing contraceptive pills to treat hormonal imbalance and counteract the effects of androgenic hormones. This is usually administered by dermatologists or doctors to patients who do not respond well to topical or oral anti-acne medications.

Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection is one of the medications to care and treat acne-prone skin. This is by injecting an adequately diluted corticosteroid to inflamed acne cysts. This allows the inflammation to subside and start the healing process. This injection works by destroying the acne cyst within a period of 3 to 5 days. This is done to severely inflamed acne which can leave ugly marks on the face.

Oral antibiotics such as Erythromycin and tetracycline are also effective medications to care and treat acne-prone skin. These medications destroy the bacteria that cause acne and prevent the spread of infection. They allow inflammation to subside to promote healing.

Topical retinoids such as Tretinoin are considered the cornerstone of acne treatment. Retinoids are derivative of Vitamin A and are powerful in treating acne. Some may experience allergic reactions or irritations. It is recommended to use topical retinoids with proper instructions from physicians and dermatologists.