Best treatment of acne: Benzoyl peroxide

The treatment of acne should be combination approach. Single agents usually do not work well. The treatment should be designed with the goals of controlling the microbacteria and opening the pores. Benzoyl peroxide products are excellent for oily skin, exfloliation, and their antibacterial properties. Benzoyl peroxide washes may be used two to three times a day. Benzoyl peroxide creams may be used in the morning or at night. This provides excellent antibacterial coverage, as bacteria have no resistance to benzoyl peroxide. Initially, choose a mild benzoyl peroxide strength. The strength can be increased as tolerated. Benzoyl peroxides, as mentioned, and retinoic acids open the skin pores. Over the counter retinoic acid call retinol. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is very effective in opening pores. The appropriate benzoyl peroxide wash or mild acidic wash is used two to three times daily. The benzoyl peroxide cream or lotion is applied in the morning and retinol in the evening. An oil free moisturizer may be used over the benzoyl peroxide or retinol. If the acne is primarily skin colored bumps or blackheads (comedonal), home glycolic acid peels and blackhead extraction can be done once or twice a week to clear the pores. Facial masks are also very effective at clearing the pores while toning the skin. Although over the counter preparations are excellent, some individuals may need prescription medication. Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics, birth control pills, prescription benzoyl peroxides or retinoic acid. If the acne is severe, a high dose prescription Vitamin A oral medication, Accutane, is an option. This must be prescribed and closely monitored by your dermatologist.