Acne, also known as Acne Vulgaris, is a common skin condition that affects most individuals. While acne can occur almost anywhere on the skin, the most common sites are the face, back, shoulder, neck, chest, and upper arms.

Acne usually occurs during puberty or teenage, when the sebaceous glands (the oil-secreting glands of your body) become over-activated. This causes plugging of hair follicles (tunnel-shaped structure on the outer layer of the skin from which the hair starts growing) with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and other forms of pimples on the body. 


8 Frequently Asked Questions About Acne and its Treatment

1. What is the best treatment for acne on the face?

  • Gentle washing of the face, no more than twice daily. 

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur for mild to moderate breakouts.

  • Prescription medication which includes topical treatment (medication that is applied to a particular place on or in the body), antibiotics, isotretinoin (a drug used to treat severe acne), and laser and light therapy. 

2. What would a dermatologist prescribe for acne?

Your dermatologist may prescribe one or more of these: 

  • Antibiotics (helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation) for oral use or topical application.

  • Birth control pills and other medicine that works on hormones (which can be helpful for women).

  • Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives) for blackheads, whiteheads, and other lesions of acne.

3. How long does it take for acne to go away?

Acne treatment needs time to work. Using a different product every few days can also irritate your skin, causing new breakouts. If a treatment works, you should notice some improvement in about 4 to 6 weeks. It can take nearly 2 to 3 months for complete resolution of acne.

4. How do you treat bacterial acne?

Bacterial acne is usually treated with products that contain the following:

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: This kills bacteria, accelerates the replacement of skin, and slows the production of sebum.

  • Salicylic Acid: This assists in the breakdown of blackheads and whiteheads and helps reduce inflammation and swelling. 

  • Sulfur: This removes dead skin cells that clog pores and helps remove excess oil.

  • Retin-A: This unblocks pores through cell turnover (constant shedding of dead skin cells and subsequent replacement with younger cells). 

5. What is the strongest treatment for acne?

Isotretinoin is a powerful drug that's used to treat severe cases of acne. Your doctor may recommend this drug if you have severe acne that doesn't get better with other medications, including antibiotics. 

6. Does drinking water help reduce acne?

Consuming water, nonetheless, is not the magic bullet for acne. Drinking water helps your skin self-moisturize as well as cleanse your cells of built-up waste. However, it does not have an effect on your sebum production. It also fights dry skin and removes unnecessary contaminants.

7. What are some natural home remedies to get rid of acne fast?

  • Lemon juice: Lemon juice, rich in vitamin C, contains antioxidants that may help reduce skin damage, premature aging, and can prevent acne. 

  • Rubbing ice on the face: Ice soothes irritated skin. It can reduce swelling and redness by increasing blood circulation to the acne-prone areas and also help to remove the dirt and oil. 

  • Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents and reduces acne by clearing out clogged pores.

  • Garlic: Garlic has antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties that prevent acne.

  • Baking soda: Baking soda reduces inflammation and mild pain due to acne.

  • Cucumber: Cucumber juice can fight acne or breakouts without drying or burning the skin.

8. How can women stop or prevent period acne?

During a menstrual cycle, the hormone levels fluctuate. This can result in acne breakouts during their period. Quick tips to stop or prevent period acne are:

  • Wash your face two times a day with a cleanser that doesn't contain oil.

  • Use an over-the-counter anti-acne cream to remove excessive oil. 

  • Remove makeup and clean your skin before going to bed. 

  • Take a shower after exercising.

  • Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes. 

If your acne doesn't improve after two or three months of starting treatment, consider seeing a skin specialist (dermatologist).


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.