However, if you are an acne sufferer it is wise to know some of the basics of acne treatment and what your therapy options are. Essentially, there are two types of acne treatments: products which clean the skin pores; products which control the oil and hormone production in the body, which in turn control the acne too. The products which help in the cleansing of the pores help by not letting oil or dead skin cells to accumulate and block the skin pores. Most of the acne-control products which you can buy off the shelves contain two chemicals – salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These products are effective and many people use them for treating their acne. Many people use several pore cleansers, one at a time and continue their treatment for a period of 8 to 10 weeks.

Acne treatment products which promise to control the production of hormones do so by restricting sebum production, which in turn prevent acne breakouts. Dermatologists usually prefer to use topical applications or even oral antibiotics. Some doctors are also known to use anti androgen medicines. Oral contraceptive pills strangely are also known to control acne effectively, since they primarily act on the hormone production.

For the treatment of moderate to heavy acne, doctors prefer to stop the production of sebum which is the primary cause of acne development. Drugs containing isotretinoin is the preferred therapy under such circumstances. This chemical, unfortunately has several side effects including birth defects, reduction of bone mineral density and mood changes, if used for a prolonged period of time. Though rare, the side effects are harmful and you should never consume these drugs without consulting your physician.

Though costly, laser treatment for acne is one of the most accepted forms of therapy these days. Laser therapies aims to reduce the production of sebum and destroy P. acnes, the principal bacteria which cause acne. Blue light, pulsed light and use of heat energy are some of the other popular acne treatments.

According to experts, in terms of safety, cost and efficacy, the best option for acne treatment is to have a vitamin-enriched diet. Vitamins A, B and E are know acne reducers and there are enough foods and supplements available, which you could include in your daily diet, if you want a speedy and safe recovery from acne bouts.