Retinoids

Recommended for people with moderate acne, retinoid medication comes in the form of cream and lotions. Topical retinoids work by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin (exfoliating), which helps prevent them from building up within hair follicles.

Azelaic acid

A naturally occurring acid in grains such as rye and barley, azelaic acid has antibacterial properties. When applied to the skin in a cream, the compound cleans out the pores and protects against acne.

Azelaic acid is a good alternative to benzoyl peroxide, an antibiotic substance that’s also used in acne treatment. It’s worth noting that the compound takes longer to work than other acne treatment methods, so it may not be for everyone.

Light Treatment

Light therapy is another method of acne treatment that can help to kill bacteria on the skin. There are two types of light therapy, which include blue and red.

Blue light therapy has an antibacterial effect, removing any microbes that are clogging the skin. Red light treatment is often used for healing, reducing inflammation and is recommended for acne scars.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a great treatment for fighting acne scarring by promoting the healthy growth of new collagen in the skin. Microneedling tools prick the skin to create small wounds, which stimulates this growth through healing.

Antibiotics

An effective way of controlling acne involves using antibiotics to eliminate skin bacteria and reduce inflammation. Depending on the severity of the acne, you may require oral or topical cream medications.

Tetracycline

Tetracycline is an example of an oral antibiotic that’s used to ward off acne and it’s usually combined with other medication to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic antibiotic that reduces microbes on the skin and may be combined with tetracycline.