Acne Treatment - Past to Present

The first acne treatments developed way back in the 1800s, differ little from some medications in almost any drugstore today. Sulphur was used to dry out the skin causing the skin to peel and loosen clogged pores.

By the 1950's lotions included anti-bacterial ingredients along with sulphur. The main problem with sulphur was thatit normally tended to lose strength with prolonged use. It's been shown that the skin quickly adjusts to the ingredient.

It wasn't until the use of the first antibiotics in acne medications that more effective treatments arrived. However, penicillin turned out to have very little effect on acne, although it would circulate
in the bloodstream it would not get far enough into the skin. Fortunately, other antibiotics were developed that did penetrate the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide has been around for the treatment of acne since it's treatment efficacy was discovered by Revlon laboratories in the 1920's. It became available as an over-the-counter treatment and through prescription strength. Its popularity is credited to its antibacterial properties and its effects as a peeling agent. It also limited the secretion of oils that contributed to acne flare-ups.

Vitamin A acid (Retin-A) was developed in the late 60's and became another important acne treatment. It helps heal acne by normalizing exfoliation inside the follicle which helps reduce the formation of acne lesions. Many patients have experienced significant
redness in the first few weeks of use, this causes some to discontinue use

Many traditional acne treatments can cause irritation and are pro-inflammatory. It seems contradictory that the cure is similar to the problem - both being inflammatory.

The Vitamin A derivative isotretinoin was released in the early 80's. Known as Accutane it has been effective for extreme forms of cystic or nodular acne.

It is normally taken over 20 weeks and for some it has proven nothing short of a miracle. It has a number of possible side effects like a sudden inability to see at night, inflammation of the liver and major birth defects.

Alpha hydroxy acids are other acne treatments. They are
effective at increasing the shedding of skin cells, this helps clear blocked follicles. They are also good for their antibacterial properties.


Go to acne scar removal to find the latest on quick, safe and effective acne treatments. Also, find out how to avoid spending a fortune to remove acne scars.