Anti-androgens
Cyproterone Acetate in Acne Treatment
Cyproterone acetate is an anti-androgen, which means it suppresses the production of male hormones. It is prescribed almost always as part of a birth control...
April 03, 2020
Acne Treatments
For a quick list of acne treatments and how well they tend to work, check out the acne treatments overview page.
Generally speaking, for most people, proper application of benzoyl peroxide can completely clear acne and keep it clear until it naturally subsides with time.
For people with severe, widespread, and scarring acne, isotretinoin (Accutane®) is an oral treatment that can produce long-term remission of acne in about 2/3 of people, but comes with many side effects, some of which can be lifelong. It also causes severe birth defects, and may cause premature aging and joint pain in the long-term. For all of these reasons, all other options should be exhausted first. If it is used, it must be administered in close partnership with a physician.
Females: If you are experiencing irregular menstruation, particularly if it comes with excessive hair growth, be sure to see your doctor concerning poly-cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If PCOS is diagnosed, oral contraceptives are normally prescribed and can clear acne and relieve other symptoms at the same time.
Many other topical and oral treatments exist for acne, most of which produce moderate, yet incomplete, results. Home remedies, aside from a few exceptions, tend to produce little to no results.
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Latest in Acne Treatments
Cortisone Shots
Cortisone Shots for Acne
Cortisone shots can drastically and immediately reduce inflammation in severe acne lesions. Info on what they are, side effects, and where to get one are explored.
March 23, 2020
Scar Treatments
Acne Scar Treatments
There are numerous acne scar treatments that do help. Read through this page to understand what type of scarring you have, available scar treatments for your skin's unique topography, and advice on finding the right doctor to perform your chosen procedure.
March 03, 2020
Oily Skin Treatments
Are There Any Safe and Effective Treatments for Seborrhea (Oily Skin)?
Seborrhea (oily skin) is not a disease, so prescriptions like isotretinoin or hormonal therapy are only used when an underlying disease such as acne is present. For seborrhea without an underlying disease present, Botox, topical green tea, and electrothermolysis may help.
February 18, 2020
Retinoids
Will the Skin Really Worsen Before It Improves on the Retinoids Tretinoin, Adapalene, or Tazarotene?
A very common myth surrounds topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene). Many people, including dermatologists, warn that the skin will get worse before it gets better...
February 04, 2020
Acne Treatments
What Do Things Like "#1 Doctor Recommended" or "Dermatologist Recommended" Actually Mean?
The label "#1 Dermatologist Recommended" provides little useful information about a product. When it comes to making decisions about your health, be your own advocate.
February 04, 2020
Benzoyl Peroxide
Does Benzoyl Peroxide Make Hyperpigmentation Worse?
There is no evidence to date that benzoyl peroxide makes hyperpigmentation worse.
February 03, 2020
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Learn About Glycolic Acid
How to use Acne.org AHA+ (10% glycolic acid)
December 07, 2019
Acne Treatments
Acne Treatment Options
Despite the numerous acne treatment options, only a few are effective. Get the facts and choose a treatment that will clear you up completely.
December 02, 2019
Acne Treatments
Acne Cure?
A cure for acne does not exist, with the possible exception of Accutane (isotretinoin) in some people who take it and experience remission of symptoms. Be skeptical of anything you find online claiming to "cure" acne, especially if they try to charge you money or sell advertisements.
November 21, 2019