Are you seeking a solution to stubborn pimples? You’re not alone. Acne, affecting individuals of all ages, can be a frustrating skin condition, but clear and healthy skin is within reach. Our comprehensive guide, drawing from dermatologists’ insights, unveils the most effective acne treatments—ranging from topical and oral medications to professional in-office procedures. We also highlight essential lifestyle adjustments to prevent future breakouts. Dive in to learn about scientifically-backed pimples-blasting strategies, at-home remedies, and when to seek professional help. With a dermatologist-recommended treatment plan, clear and healthy skin is achievable.
What Are the Most Effective Acne Treatments?
Tips from Skincare Experts
If you suffer from regular acne breakouts, just know you’re not the only one. According to The National Institutes for Health, acne affects an estimated 80 percent of people between ages 11 and 30. With that many experiencing pimples on a regular basis, it’s no wonder people are constantly searching for the best acne treatments to achieve clean and clear skin!
Keep reading if you’re ready to uncover the top ways to treat pimples and powerful pimples-blasting techniques dermatologists use.
Dermatologists Identify the Best Treatments for Acne
In this section, we will discuss various effective acne treatments, including topical and oral options, as well as when it is appropriate to treat pimples at home versus seeking professional help.
We will also address lifestyle changes that can help reduce future pimples breakouts. Let’s dive in!
Recommendations for Topical Acne Treatments, and How They Work
1. Use Topical Retinoids (Retinol-A, Vitacid, Vitanol, Differin, Tazorac, etc.)
Prescription of topical retinoids are commonly used to prevent clogged pores by shedding dead skin cells. Applying them regularly in the evening can improve skin cell turnover and slow collagen breakdown.
To minimize dryness and irritation, start by applying every 2-3 days before transitioning to daily use. Mixing topical retinoids with a moisturizer can also help reduce dryness.
Topical retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so remember to apply sunscreen daily when using topical retinoids during the summer months.
2. Topical Antibiotics
Topical antibiotics like clindamycin (Clindoxyl Gel) kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Combining them with benzoyl peroxide (Benzac e Clindoxyl Control) prevents antibiotic resistance.
3. Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is an acne medication with antibacterial properties that is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can also help manage post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that occurs with some forms of acne.
Azelan, which is the trade name for azelaic acid, is available for purchase either as a gel (which is more suitable for oily and pimples-prone skin) or as a cream (ideal for dry and mature skin).
4. Topical Products with Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is effective in preventing the clogging and blocking of pores by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells.
5. Topical Dapsone (Aczone)
Topical dapsone is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. It helps reduce inflammatory papules and pustules associated with pimples.
Recommendations for Oral Acne Treatments, and How They Work
1. Oral Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics such as Doxycycline, Minocycline and Sarecycline can kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Combining them with benzoyl peroxide can help prevent antibiotic resistance.
To help avoid antibiotic resistance, it’s suggested that these medications be used for the least amount of time possible.
2. Anti-Androgen Medications
Anti-androgen drugs like spironolactone can help reduce pimples in women by reducing the impact of androgen hormones on oil glands, thereby decreasing oil production and inflammation.
3. Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives combat hormonal acne by reducing androgens, which decreases oil production.
A few contraceptives have even been approved specifically for the treatment of pimples.
4. Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is an oral form of Vitamin A and tends to be my last resort option when addressing severe nodulocystic acne is unresponsive to numerous topical and oral therapies.
It works by regulating proper exfoliation of the skin, reducing oil production, killing bacteria, and reducing inflammation.
This effective pimples treatment doesn’t require continuous use either; Isotretinoin is a short-term treatment that takes approximately 5 to 6 months to complete.
Although, it does require routine lab monitoring and monthly visits with us while on this type of therapy, since the side effects of Isotretinoin can be severe.
What Do Experts Recommend for Treating Acne at Home Compared to In-Office Treatments?
Many patients start treating their acne at home by using over-the-counter products that include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid face washes and leave-on products. This is a good place to start at the first sign of pimples.
However, if over-the-counter treatments and products prove to be ineffective in controlling pimples, we recommend you follow up with us for a thorough evaluation and discussion of prescription-strength topical and oral therapies.
What Are Some Popular In-Office Treatments for Acne Clínica De Pele Offers to Patients?
At our clinic, we offer a variety of in-office procedures to help clear stubborn pimples. These include dermatological consultations, as well as cutting-edge treatments like retinoic acid peelings, salicylic acid, cimel peeling, and melanese.
For those who have already developed acne scars, we provide treatments such as fractional CO2 Laser, subcision, peeling, and collagen bio-stimulators.
Let’s Talk Lifestyle Changes—What Do Experts Recommend Patients Change Regarding Their Daily Choices to Help Eliminate or Prevent Acne?
There are several suggestions to be made here.
- Smaller studies have shown a possible link between high sugar intake and high consumption of low-fat dairy in the development of acne flares, so try to reduce the intake of these foods to alleviate future breakouts.
- It is important to wash acne-prone areas with proper cleansers daily, or even twice a day—morning and night—if you have skin that tends to be more oil-prone. Washing with water only is not sufficient to adequately remove dirt and oil from the skin.
- Use oil-free moisturizers and non-comedogenic makeup (preferably mineral makeup) to reduce the chance of breakouts and pimples.
- Avoid cleansers or products that have a gritty or coarse texture, as they can irritate the skin and potentially enlarge pores.
- Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping pimples as it can lead to scarring and infections.
Any Other Helpful Information on Acne Treatments to Include?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, our clinic has noticed patients are experiencing more acne flares under their masks. Given this, it is essential for patients to wash their masks frequently in a mild, fragrance-free detergent to help reduce acne breakouts.
Clear and Healthy Skin Is Possible
If you’re suffering from pimples and are ready to say goodbye to it as soon as possible, you’re not alone. Clínica de Pele in Rio de Janeiro is a leader in acne treatment and would love to help you find the right treatment for you.
With the right dermatologist-recommended treatment plan, you can get your pimples under control and enjoy clear, healthy skin. Contact us today to discuss customized options to successfully treat your acne. Book online here or call (021) 3005-3193 to schedule an appointment with one of our skincare experts today.
