When an OTC treatment doesn’t clear up acne, visiting your doctor for a consultation is recommended. They might prescribe an oral acne medication to reduce or get rid of the problem. This regularly works because meds, such as doxycycline or spironolactone, are stronger than topical solutions, so you have a much greater chance of success.
Oral medication for acne reduces the amount of oil produced by the skin, while at the same time attacking the bacteria that causes acne. Not only that, but inflammation will also be minimized, while the turnover of skin cells will be increased, making it easier to keep acne under control.
Oral medication is not a quick fix, and in the majority of cases it will take at least 4 weeks before you see results. Also, understand that your condition might get worse before it gets better, which is why you need to be patient when taking the medication. This is a long-term solution, that often takes months to completely clear up severe acne. You’re going to need to be patient.
Doctors regularly prescribe a topical cream to be used in conjunction with oral acne medication. This is typically in the form of retinoids, which comes in either a gel, cream, or lotion, and is applied to the skin several times a week. You might be prescribed benzoyl peroxide instead of retinoids, depending on the severity of the acne and your skin sensitivity.
Is oral acne medication safe for pregnancy? It usually isn’t, mainly because pregnant women should avoid anything that could potentially harm their baby, and this includes antibiotics. Only in the most extreme of circumstances would a doctor prescribe antibiotics for a pregnant woman. You should normally use natural remedies to help clear up acne, and only use oral medication once you have given birth.
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Oral Acne Medication Alternatives
For some people, antibiotics can have negative side effects. Doctors will generally suggest that you try an over the counter treatment first. Especially for mild to moderate cases, these treatments will work and you won’t take any risks with oral medication.
Not every situation requires prescription drugs, and for some people, taking these kind of tablets on a long-term basis just isn’t worth the hassle, especially when you only have mild acne. For this reason, it’s a good idea to seek out alternative remedies.
Acne Treatment Systems
A popular solution is a complete acne system that contains multiple ingredients that are proven to work effectively. The AcneFree severe acne treatment system has received some glowing reports, so it’s clearly delivering excellent results for sufferers.
The unique formula helps to unblock pores and eliminate keratin, while at the same time giving you protection against spots and blemishes. This is a complete solution for getting rid of acne, so you will need to be prepared to invest in yourself to get the results you need.
Recognized Brands
When you are looking for an inexpensive but effective solution then a recognized brand, such as Clearasil, is a good starting point. Their Clearasil ultra rapid acne cream costs just $10, and it contains a unique formula that gets to work very fast, giving you noticeable results within days.
Blue Light Therapy
One acne treatment that is starting to get more attention is blue light therapy, mainly because it is an alternative to taking medication for months. You can either buy a blue light therapy system for your home, or visit a dermatologist for regular sessions.
Going to a dermatologist can get expensive, as health insurances won’t help you with the cost, as it is a cosmetic procedure. It will take at least a few treatments for the light therapy to work, and this can add up to a lot of money. At-home blue light therapy treatments are a much better bargain in the long run, and you can use it without missing work, at any time you like.
Things to Keep in Mind
When you’re prescribed antibiotics such as doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline, then there are certain things to keep in mind to get the most out of your experience. Keep reading to find out more.
If it Isn’t Working
While you must give medications time to work, it might come to a point where it’s clear the tablets are not working for you. Everybody is different, and it might be the case that your body is not responding to that particular type of antibiotic. If this happens simply go back to the doctor and explain the situation. Typically, they will prescribe you with an alternative.
Prevention is Key
Oral medication for acne is not a cure, and even if you start to notice an improvement while taking tablets, the acne can easily return. Once you stop taking the medication, you will still have to have a routine to keep it controlled.
Aiming to eat a healthy diet, getting the right vitamins and plenty of exercise definitely helps. You should also wash twice a day with the best acne face wash and not share wash cloths or face towels with anybody else in your house.
Try to avoid getting stressed over things that aren’t really that important. Many studies have found a link between stress and acne. If you do struggle in this regard, try relaxation techniques and meditation to achieve a calmer mind and body.
Don’t Increase Your Dosage
Under no circumstances should you attempt to increase your oral acne medication dosage without consulting your doctor first. Many people start to see the antibiotics working, and then decide to start taking more in order to get rid of the acne faster. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that, and by increasing the dosage, you’re putting your health at risk. Don’t do it because it doesn’t work and it could make you very ill.
You’ll now have a good idea if this type of medication is right for you. If you just have a few spots or you’re pregnant, we strongly recommend that you use the best over the counter acne treatment. You need to select a product that’s specifically designed for your skin type.
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