Health Articles > Acne > Choosing the Right Acne Medication

Acne is a common skin disorder that troubles 80% of people between the ages of eleven and thirty. Although it can be treated and does not present any severe detriment to your health, for many, it can cause anxiety, embarrassment, and the lowering of self- esteem. Utilizing an appropriate acne medication can help eliminate some of the stressors surrounding it and assist in achieving healthy skin. But when choosing the right medication, the task can also seem somewhat confusing and overwhelming. Acne is caused by several aspects. Increased oil production and changing hormone levels can lead to blocked pores, which causes skin to become irritated and inflamed. Skin products, the use of certain sports equipment, environmental pollutants, stress, and excessive touching of the skin can also contribute to the increased development of skin irritation. The skin can then become reddened and may produce blemishes. But today, the market is flooded with acne medication that can assist in minimizing the excess oil and healing the irritated skin. Over-the-counter medication includes ointments, lotions, soaps, and cleansing pads. Some of the more common over-the-counter acne medications include Benzoyl Peroxide, Resorcinol, Salicylic Acid and Sulfur. Over-the-counter solutions are often more effective in treating milder cases, but such medication may also take up to eight weeks to make a marked difference in the skin. This type of medication should be applied topically to the blemish and also to the entire affected area. The purpose of this treatment is to not only heal the visible blemish but to prevent new outbreaks. In order to maintain healthy skin and prevent any new skin irritations, the utilization should be ongoing. If the acne problem is severe or does not resolve itself after a period of time, a dermatologist may suggest prescription medication. Prescription acne medication will be prescribed by a doctor or a dermatologist in either topical or oral form. Prescription medications include Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives), Antibiotics, and prescription strength Benzoyl Peroxide. Some doctors feel that in certain situations, a combination of over-the-counter and prescription strength medication can be of benefit in helping to resolve the skin condition. With extremely sensitive skin, over-the-counter or prescription medication may cause irritation including redness, dryness, or tightness. If these types of irritations continue, decrease the utilization to every second or third day or decrease the length of application time. Adding mild facial cleansers or moisturizers may decrease skin dryness. When using prescription acne medication, the patient should be monitored by the prescribing doctor every four to six weeks to ensure safe and effective usage. Acne is a condition that can be treated and controlled with the appropriate guidance. When choosing a medication, it is always important to discuss any possible side effects with your doctor or pharmacist. Also, in order to assure proper dosage and application, it is essential to thoroughly read the information included within the package of acne medication.