Top 10 Acne Treatments of 2009

by Monica Prata

With over 17 million people in the US suffering from acne, scientists and doctors are constantly working together to develop new techniques and treatments of this unsightly condition. Acne plagues nearly 85% of teenagers, and when untreated or improperly treated, it can result in scarring. With the amount of people being effected by acne increasing, so are the options in treatment. Use this guide to learn about some of the most innovated and highest rated acne treatments of 2009!

1. Laser Acne Treatment
Laser treatment is best for moderate to severe cases of acne. Using laser light impulses, P. acnes and infected areas are targeted and attacked. Positive results can be seen in as little as one week or two sessions.

2. Pulsed Light and Heat Energy Therapy
Using both pulsed light and heat energy, PLH therapy is thought to destroy P. acnes and shrink sebaceous glands, decreasing oil production. This FDA approved treatment combines pulses of green-yellow light and heat, treating mild to moderate acne, including inflammatory acne.

3. Microdermabrasion
Using a hand-held device, tiny crystals are distributed onto the skin. These micro-fine crystals gently "polish" the skin's surface. After applying the crystals a vacuum tube removes the crystals and dead skin cells, giving the skin a pure and radiant appearance. Microdermabrasion exfoliates while unclogging pores, results are immediately visible.

4. Chemical Peels
Glycolic acid or salicylic acid is applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, remove whiteheads, blackheads and to generate new skin growth. Chemical peels are often used in combination with acne creams or gels for better penetration of the medication.

5. Blue Light Therapy
This is one of the newest of the surgical Acne treatments and is becoming increasingly popular because of its rapid results and painless process. Blue light therapy is the process of exposing the skin to a low intensity blue light and is said to destroy P. acnes.

6. Proactiv System
Proactiv is a popular celebrity endorsed multi-step acne treatment program. The Proactiv acne fighting system combines finely milled benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and other prescription grade ingredients. It gently exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, attacks acne-causing bacteria and soothes inflammation.

7. Acnepril Dietary Supplement
Acnepril is a highly rated dietary supplement to be taken three times a day to help treat acne. Acnepril is formulated to balance acne increasing hormone levels in the body, detoxify and cleanse the body of toxins and to strengthen the skin, promoting regenerative cell growth.

8. Murad Acne Complex
The Murad Acne Complex uses a twice a day three step program to reduce the appearance of acne and to help prevent new acne from developing. Includes a clarifying cleanser killing 99.9% of surface bacteria, an exfoliating acne treatment gel exfoliating with AHA's and salicylic acids and an oil free lotion to reduce redness and irritation.

9. Accutane
Accutane is a powerful drug used to treat moderate to severe acne and should generally be used after trying other means of treatment. Accutane generally takes about five months to clear up even the most severe cases of acne. Accutane is derived of Vitamin A and should only be taken when prescribed.

10. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a derivative of the Melaleuca plant and historically has been used in treating skin infections, fungal infections and ulcerations. It is a natural ingredient that is often combined with benzoyl peroxide but if you are seeking a 100% natural alternative this is the one to try. While the results of tea tree oil may take longer than a chemical or surgical procedure, it has been shown to improve inflamed and non-inflamed acne breakouts; without causing dryness, peeling or flaking.

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