Despite the numerous treatments available, only a few are effective
Read below for information on available acne treatments.
Very effective Acne.org's own Regimen: The Regimen is a 3 step process, using common drugstore products. You may have even tried similar products before. But, when used precisely as outlined in The Regimen, you will predictably clear up. Read more »
Very effective Accutane provides long-term remission of acne symptoms in about 2/3 of people who take an adequate dosage (1mg/kg). However, the power and permanency of the drug, along with its ability to cause severe birth defects and other side effects, necessitate a serious decision making and planning process with a trusted doctor, family, and caring friends. Read more »
Effective 9 times out of 10, hormonal treatment means the administration of birth control pills (oral contraceptives). Studies show women enjoying 30-60% reduction in acne symptoms after taking most brands of oral contraceptive, whether they are specifically approved as acne-clearing contraceptives or not. In some other cases, doctors prescribe testosterone blockers in addition to oral contraceptives, or on their own. Read more »
Somewhat effective Antibiotics, while being prescribed less due to their limited efficacy and ability to create resistant strains of bacteria, are still sometimes prescribed for acne, both orally and topically. Other topical prescriptions include retinoids which dry and peel, anti-inflammatories which reduce inflammation, and other topicals which attempt to tackle multiple parts of the acne-formation process. Read more »
Limited effectiveness Most over-the-counter medications (salicylic acid, sulfur, and resorcinol) provide little benefit. Benzoyl peroxide is the one stand out, and when used within The Regimen, is very effective. Read more »
Limited effectiveness Normally producing “fair” to “good” results, high percentage chemical peels can be professionally administered. Read more »
Limited effectiveness Laser and light therapy tend to disappoint, both for the time and effort involved as well as for their limited efficacy and high cost. Read more about light therapy » Read more about laser therapy »
Largely ineffective While we should remain open to holistic and home remedies, and hopefully someday get to the root of acne, at the current time there simply are no other chemicals which can penetrate into the skin and deliver oxygen like benzoyl peroxide can. Without the ability to penetrate the skin and delivery the oxygen needed to kill acne bacteria, any topical treatment, whether it is found in a store, pharmacy, or kitchen, is limited. Read reviews on home remedies »
New The ZIIT Method: This is a way of spot treating a pimple and is not an all-over treatment. It combines zinc, ibuprofen, ice, and treatment with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide plus 10% glycolic acid. Read The ZIIT Method instructions »
