Acne Natural Treatment Vs Conventional Treatment

If proper cleansing and topical treatment are not enough, an oral antibi­otic may be prescribed. Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline (Achromycin V), erythromycin (ERYC, Ilotycin, and others), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin), doxycycline (Doryx, Vibramycin, and others), ampicillin (Om­nipen, Polycillin, and others), cephalosporins, and sulfa drugs are often pre­scribed by dermatologists for more severe acne with many papules and/or pustules. These are often very helpful, but one cannot stay on antibiotics forever.

For women who have acne and also need birth control, hormonal ther­apy may be useful, especially if the acne is thought to be driven by a hor­monal imbalance. Birth control pills with 50 micrograms of estrogen and low progesterone can help to control acne and are sometimes prescribed for just that purpose in women. Examples include Demulen 1/50, Demulen 1/35, Loestrin 1/20, Ortho-Novum 7-7-7, Triphasil, and Tri­Norinyl. In more severe cases in older women, antiandrogens such as spironolactone are sometimes used.

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is frequently used for severe acne. It usually yields great results that can markedly improve a person's self-image and self-esteem. Isotretinoin is a strong derivative of vitamin A

that significantly reduces the glands' production of sebum and shrinks the oil glands. However, it can cause side effects, including very dry skin and mucous membranes, sore muscles and joints, bone changes, rising levels of cholesterol and blood fats, elevation of liver enymzes, and headaches. Close monitoring by a physician is necessary. Often, more than one course of treatment is necessary for very severe, chronic cases. However, people are often pleased with the results, so they are willing to put up with the side effects and risks. The biggest risk concerning isotretinoin concerns pregnancy. This drug causes birth defects, so it cannot be used if you are planning to get pregnant just before, during, or just after the course of treatment.