Bad Acne

[Love95]

I have tried almost anything in stores to try to clear my acne.Now, I've had acne for about three years and I just can't seem to clear it up. What would be the best solution to clearing it up? Would you suggest a laser treatment of some sort to get rid of scaring?

[loiloi]

Hi. Acne is caused by elevated levels of androgens or a particular sensitivity to the effects of androgens. Androgens stimulate the oil glands in the skin. Bacteria on the skin feeds off excess oil (sebum) and the glands become blocked leading to spots.
An effective treatment will target one of the causes of acne: Oil, bacteria and androgens.
Products available to the public are of limited benefit for anything other than mild acne. See your doctor for one of the following products:
A course of oral antibiotics such as Lymecycline or Oxytetracycline will kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin. You will have to take these for about 8-12 weeks and may need further courses if your tendency to acne persists.
Topical antibiotics are also available. Dalacin-T solution (Clindamycin) or Duac gel (Clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide) are often prescribed.
A topical synthetic retinoid such as Differin (adapalene 0.1%) is very effective and generally well tolerated. Oral retinoids (Accutane/Roaccutane) are prescribed for severe acne which has not responded to standard treatments.
Female acne patients may also benefit from taking a combined oral contraceptive pill to block the action of androgens. Avoid the mini-pill, depot shot or hormonal IUD which will induce acne.
Most acne scarring is superficial and will fade on its own within a year. I had laser treatment 6 months after finishing Roaccutane therapy to remove my acne scars. Please see pictures in my profile.
Eloise.

[heatherlynn22]

i use proactive. i had HORRIBLE acne as a teenager and i tried everything under the sun. stuff my dermatologist prescribed and everything in the stores. NOTHING worked. i figured what the h3ll might as well try. cleared up my face in a month. i have the occasional break out still but my skin looks great. has since i was 21. i love love love proactive and even though it is a bit expensive it's so worth it.