The various methods of treating acne can be broadly classified under two heads.

1. Topical
Topical medicines are those prescription and over the counter medicines that are applied externally over the skin.

2. Systemic
Systemic medicines are those medicines that are taken internally (orally).

The treatment procedure aims at:

1. Killing the bacteria that live in the follicles of the skin
2. Reducing the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands
3. Exfoliating the skin

The most widely used treatments for acne are:

Antibiotics
Antibiotics are taken internally like in the case of tetracyclines. Bactericides like erythromycin or benzoil peroxide are externally applies on the skin affected with acne. These help killing or slowing down the growth of baceria in the skin fillicles. However killing the bacteria alone will not heal acne. Therefore these antibiotics are usually combined with other treatments.

Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is a retinoid that is very effective in treating acne in most cases, even the severe forms. It is taken orally evreyday. It reduces the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. It is available in the market under various brand names. Isotretinoin, however, has many side effects like dry skin, damage to liver etc. Therefore it is important to discuss them with the dermatologist before choosing to take it. Isotretinoin should be avoided by pregnant or to be pregnant women as it might cause birth defects.

Tretinoin
Tretinoin is a tropical retinoid which are administered on the skin externally. Here the side effects are milder as very little is absorbed into the blood stream. It works by preventing the dead cells from blocking the pores.

Exfoliating Agents
This is done either mechanically, using an abrasive cloth or a liquid scrub, or chemically. Common chemical exfoliating agents include salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which encourage the destroying the top layer of skin cells at the microscopic level to prevent a build-up of dead skin cells which combine with skin oil to block pores. It also helps to unblock already clogged pores. Moisturizers and anti-acne topicals containing chemical exfoliating agents are commonly available over the counter.

Phototherapy
It is used to control acne on a short term basis by killing the bacteria. However studies have shown that sunlight worsens acne in the long run due to UV damage.

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