4 Dermatologist-Approved Acne Treatments

There's nothing more disappointing than waking up to find yourself in the middle of a breakout. Everyone gets pimples occasionally, but more severe breakouts can indicate a condition called acne. Acne primarily affects people as they go through puberty, but adults can suffer the effects of acne as well. When home treatments don't work, a dermatologist can help. Here are four different acne treatment options that a dermatology clinic can offer:

1. Extraction

Blemish extraction is a viable option when you need your breakout to clear up immediately. If you have your prom or another big event coming up, you may need your skin to clear up in a hurry. During an extraction, your dentist will use a sterile metal tool to lance and extrude the pus from pimples. They may also squeeze blackheads out of your pores using a tool designed specifically for that purpose. The extraction process causes only minimal discomfort; it can help your breakout heal quickly.

2. Adapalene or Tretinoin

Topical treatments are an excellent way to manage your acne long-term. Adapalene and tretinoin are two types of retinoids that can be used for acne control. Retinoids tell your skin cells to reproduce faster. When your skin cell turnover is enhanced, bacteria won't have a chance to get trapped beneath the surface of your skin. This can lead to an overall reduction in breakouts. People who use adapalene and tretinoin sometimes experience a brief purging period where their breakouts get worse before they get better. However, if you stick to your dermatologist's plan, you can have beautiful, clear skin.

3. Phototherapy

Sun exposure can clear up a bad breakout. Ultraviolet light can have a positive effect on acne, but it also increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Fortunately, there's a safer acne treatment option available. Phototherapy is an effective way to manage treatment-resistant acne. When you undergo phototherapy, your dermatologist will shine a blue or red light on your face. This light will kill the bacteria that causes acne. Weekly phototherapy treatments can eradicate stubborn acne, especially when administered in conjunction with drugs that enhance your body's sensitivity to light.

4. Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a powerful medication that can treat even the most severe cases of acne. Isotretinoin is taken orally. It reduces a person's sebum production, which in turn can reduce breakouts. This medication can permanently eradicate a person's acne, but it must be administered with careful monitoring to ensure it doesn't cause unwanted side effects.

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