A few new lesions over a few weeks is a good outcome. For mild cases, physicians often prescribe a topical benzoyl peroxide solution or Retin-A medication once or twice a day. Some are in preparations that tend to dry the skin too much. Depending on the severity, inflamed acne may be treated with a prescription oral antibiotic such as tetracycline or a solution of erythromycin or clindamycin to be applied to the skin. Each candidate has blood tests before use and continues under a dermatologist's care throughout the course of the medication.
Patients undergo periodic follow-up liver and blood lipid tests as well.
What to Avoid Whatever its severity, acne can be aggravated by such common products as oil-based makeup or sunscreen, moisturizers and hair spray. The best cleansing regimen is to wash the face once or twice a day with mild soap and water and gently pat dry. Picking or squeezing blemishes may irritate or rupture the follicle, causing inflammation. Squeezing further worsens the inflammation and increases the chances of scarring. Although chocolate and fried food took the rap for causing acne for generations, neither has been indicted by scientific study.