Common Cures for Acne
- Home treatments for acne have the benefit of being inexpensive and gentle, but they can take longer to work. Common home treatments include a paste made of four ounces of cooked oatmeal and 1/4 cup of honey applied to the skin for ten minutes. Another common home treatment consists of two drops of tea tree oil in one ounce of aloe gel, applied to affected areas twice a day.
- Over-the-counter acne remedies are readily available and vary greatly in price. They can be very effective, but some may have side effects, such as skin dryness and irritation. Some products can include a benzoyl peroxide gel, salicylic acid lotions and three-step kits combining facial washes, lotions and spot treatments. Common acne treatment brands include: Oxy, Clean and Clear, and Proactiv.
- Prescription treatments are available for the most severe or difficult cases of acne. These treatments can be harsh and must be prescribed by a doctor. Common treatments can include benzoyl peroxide gels in higher concentrations and oral medications, such as Accutane. For some women, birth control pills can also be used to treat acne.
