When it comes to medically treating moderate to severe acne, there are several options available. Some include topical applications and others are administered through an injection or injested as a pill. All will require professional medical assessment and will need a prescription from a doctor or dermatologist. Make sure to check out the best natural acne treatments as well as the fast fix treatment for acne breakouts.

Accutane (Isotretinoin) is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of moderate to severe acne. It is extremely effective and serves to reduce oil production, unclog pores and kill bacteria associated with acne. There are some side effects and risks associated with Accutane. These include headaches, excessive dryness and thinning of the skin. It is not recommended for pregnant women as studies have shown that use may cause birth defects in unborn fetuses. Your doctor will asses your suitability to the treatment and will moniter the side effects that you experience, making it imperitive to maintain regular contact throughout the course of your treatment.

Oral Antibiotics may be prescribed. As acne is partly caused by bacteria (propionibacterium acnes) in some cases it may be effectively treated with antibiotics. Erythromycin and Tetracycline (or its derivitives doxycycline and monocyclyne) are the most prescribed antibiotics in the treatment of acne. Treatments may take several months and also include sideffects such as sensitivity to sunlight and gastrointestinal irritations.

There are a number of topical treatments available which treat the acne on the skins surface. These include both antibiotic creams and retinoids. Topical treatments are used in treating mild conditions and often contain similar ingredients to over the counter treatments in higher doses. They will still have side effects in particular thinning of the skin and sensitivity to sunlight.

Even if you are on medication for your acne, it is important not to forget the basics. Make sure you are following your skincare routine religiously and keeping your skin bacteria free as much as possible. Cleanse morning and night with a gentle soap free cleanser and make sure that you have removed all traces of makeup before you go to bed. Anti bacterial wipes are a really good option for during the day when you are out and about. Make sure you are gently exfoliating once or twice a week to prevent congestion and blocked pores which can result in acne breakouts. If you suffer from acne and have tried to manage it through over the counter methods unsuccessfully see your doctor. Remember there are many options available to you and the success rate is excellent.

Julia Smythe is an internationally accredited Beauty Therapist. Julia has a special interest in aromatherapy, acne and slimming. You can find more information at: http://www.acneanswer.net and http://www.60minuteslimming.com/