Medications are the main treatment for acne and usually work well. They come in the form of soaps, washes, and cleansers. Many contain benzoyl peroxide, which does two things. First, benzoyl peroxide kills the acne-causing bacteria, which are thought to play a role in acne. Second, benzoyl peroxide can cause drying and flaking off of skin, which can help prevent the pores from becoming plugged.
Plugged pores can develop into acne blemishes.
Prescription drugs can be used effectively alone or in combination with other prescription and nonprescription medications. They work by killing the bacteria and also by decreasing the redness and swelling seen in the inflammatory forms of acne. Antibiotics may be applied to the skin in the form of gels and lotions, or by way of pills. Giving an antibiotic by mouth is often needed for acne that is more extensive, red, and tender. Antibiotics taken by mouth can be associated with more side effects than if applied to the skin and may interact with other medicines such as birth control pills.