Latest medications for Acne aside from antibiotics

1. ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES

Birth control pills or oral contraceptives may be prescribed by your dermatologist to control acne. Oral contraceptives contain estrogen, a female hormone, that helps counteract the male hormone, testosterone. Testosterone, basically, is among those responsible for stimulating the oil glands, which, in turn, can cause comedones. Oral contraceptives, however, have their limitations. Since they contain female hormones, they are prescribed only to women and should not be taken by men. Otherwise, some "feminizing" effects can occur (i.e. enlargement of the breasts, change in voice, etc.)

2. BENZOYL PEROXIDE

One of the most proven treatments for acne is benzoyl peroxide, a topical medication that has been in use for more than 30 years. Used as an active ingredient in creams, lotions and gels, benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial that works against acne-causing bacteria. It reduces the skin's production of oil and is also effective in removing dead cells that block the sebaceous follicles. Benzoyl peroxide has to be used continuously to control acne.

3. SALICYLIC ACID

Salicylic acid helps unclog pores and correct the abnormal shedding of skin to prevent lesions. Like benzoyl peroxide, it should be used continuously otherwise, its effects on the skin would stop.

4. GLYCOLIC ACID

Some over-the-counter creams and gels already contain 8% glycolic acid that can also help control acne. Glycolic acid works on the pores by preventing older cells from building up and clogging the pores.

5. CORTICOSTEROIDS

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory agents that are injected directly into inflamed acne lesions to help heal them. This should be done by a dermatologist.

6. AZELAIC ACID

Known in chemistry as dicarboxylic acid, azelaic acid is proven effective in managing acne because of its antimicrobial properties. Used as a topical solution, azelaic acid is only available by prescription. You can also get the treatment from skin clinics, as administered by a dermatologist. Because of its antimicrobial properties, azelaic acid may be helpful in cleansing the skin. Dermatologists also believe that it also works against the growth cycle of certain skin cells associated with acne development. Although it takes longer to work than retinoids, azelaic acid causes less skin sensitivity. Most dermatologists often instruct patients to use creams containing azelaic acid in conjunction with other acne products. Caution should, however, be exercised during its use. Azelaic acid can cause hypopigmentation in dark-skinned patients when used liberally.

7. SODIUM SULFACETAMIDE

This anti-acne agent contains bactericides that prevent bacterial growth. Unlike other antibacterial, it doesn't leave the skin dry and irritated. Although it's still early to pin down its effectiveness against acne, some studies show that it may reduce the inflammation commonly associated with acne.