Cleansers containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzyl peroxide may help reduce acne. These agents dry out the skin, remove debris, and unclog clogged pores. Some cleansers containing benzyl peroxide will dry the skin, causing it to peel, and thereby helping prevent the growth of bacteria.

Topical retinoids work by loosening the plugs in clogged pores. They are also helpful in removing superficially clogged pores that cause blackheads and whiteheads.

Topical antibiotics are used to remove the skin bacteria that leads to papules and pustules. They may be used in combination with other agents.

Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for moderate acne, and are effective in treating papules, pustules, and cysts. They work to decrease inflammation and bacteria around the acne lesion.

Isotretinoin is an oral medication that is used for the more severe acne. Isotretinoin reduces the size of the skin’s oil glands and the amount of oil the skin produces. The reduction in oil also leads to the reduction of bacteria living in the skin. Isotretinoin also slows down how fast the skin produces skin cells inside the pore, which helps pores from becoming clogged. There are many severe side effects of Isotretinoin, such as depression, birth defects if taken while pregnant, which is why it is important to consult with Dr. Chalasani, understand all the risks, and decide whether the Isotretinoin is right for you.

These may help reduce acne in female patients by decreasing the effect of male hormones that increase or trigger acne development. Birth control pills also have serious side effects that must be considered when determining your acne treatment plan.

There are numerous light and laser-based therapies that can reduce acne.

If scarring from acne occurs, options such as chemical peels, dermarollers, PRP, subcission and laser threatment can help reduce the appearance of scars. Talk to Dr. Chalasani if you are interested in this type of treatment.