The best treatment for moderate acne or grade 2 acne is a combination of topical and systemic medications. Dermatologist Dr.Hanish Babu provides expert advice on best treatment for moderate acne.
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All the above medications should be taken under the guidance of a dermatologist only. The information given here is only for educational purpose and cannot replace personal consultation with your acne physician! (See disclaimer).
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Benzoyl peroxide(BP) may cause irritation due to excessive peeling in sensitive skin. The following steps are advised to minimize this adverse effect:
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Apply BP only at night
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Use a water based sun screen during daytime
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In the first week, apply the BP gel/cream for 2 hours and wash off with water. If the skin is tolerating the application well, overnight application can be started from the second week onwards.
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If the patient complains of sensitive skin, start off with 2.5% gel, then shift to 5% gel after about 2-3 weeks.
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Sometimes BP can cause a flare up of lesions. This is a good sign rather than the other way round. Do not stop application. The flare up will subside and the skin lesions will start clearing soon.
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A brownish pigment is seen after treatment with BP when the papules and pustules subside. This will gradually subside. Continue using a sunscreen during this phase.
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Also see the acne best treatment principles and acne best treatment general advices to supplement the tips for moderate acne best treatment given on this page.
FAQ on moderate acne: How long should I continue treatment for moderate acne?
Answer: This differs from individual to individual. Some moderate acne sufferers can start reducing their applications and/or systemic antibiotics after a period of 6-8 weeks, while others may have to continue for longer periods. I advice my patients to continue regular application till new lesions stop appearing, then taper and gradually stop the systemic treatment. The morning antibiotic solutions (Clindamicin or Erythromycin) are stopped. BP is used in a reduced strength. If after 3-4 weeks, new lesions are still not appearing, you can reduce the frequency of application of BP as well.
Remember though, you may have to restart the regimen if there is recurrence.
