Acne is a skin condition that is because of accumulation of esxcessive sebum in the ducts because of genetic influences as well as environmental factors.

The most important part of treatment of acne before initiating medications is to compeltely re assure the patient and answer all their queries. The areas of reassurance should be directed along the lines making clear to the patient that this is not a permanent condition and shall subside with time given the proper treatment as well as care. The treatment of acne can be broadly categorized into two main parts and they need to be adapted completely for timely cure.

General measures:

The patient should be given a simple plan of action that will result in permanent actions and effects. The prime objective should be to clean the skin at all times. Advice patients with acne to keep a warm flat flannel cloth on their skin followed by gental rubbing in of a plain soap.

Medical treatment:

Along with re assurance the medical treatment of acne comprises of the following modalities

Savlon soultion:

Savlon solution with 10 times dilution in water is an amazing alternative for controlling greasy skin.

Keratolytic agents:

These are proprietary preparations which act as keratolytic agents and dissolves the keratin plug of the comedone.

Benzoyl Peroxide:

These come as lotions, gels, creams and are prescribed for topical use. Resorcinol and salicylic acid preparations of the compunds are also available.

Vitamin A:

The Vitamin A acid is also available as a cream or gel. Another type of gel that is available is called the tretinion gel which is availabel as a topical preparation.

Oral treatment:

Oral drugs that are available are oxytetracyclines as well as mino and doxycyclines.