The problem is that most people don't use benzoyl peroxide products correctly, says Webster. They apply the medicine to existing pimples rather than using it wherever they are likely to get acne, which can prevent it from popping up in the first place. You must use salicylic acid treatments continually in order to see results, as pores clog up again once you stop. Antibiotics for acne come in two forms, oral and topical. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline and tetracycline, are often more effective because they circulate throughout the body and go directly to the sebaceous glands.
Cysts are large, inflamed lesions that are filled with pus.
They occur when the contents of a clogged pore seeps into the skin, thus producing a significant local immune response. Cysts can be painful and leave scars. Products such as Retin-A, Differin, and Avita are all retinoids. They're most effective in treating blackheads and whiteheads, says Kling. However, dermatologists must perform a number of blood tests before administering Accutane, and women should not get pregnant while taking it because of the excessive risk of severe birth defects and spontaneous abortion associated with fetal exposure to the drug.