Dealing with stubborn acne that just won't budge, no matter how many drugstore remedies you've tried? Well, it might be time to consider the oral medication route. Yes, it requires a prescription and a daily routine, but the payoff can be significant. 

During this exploration, we’ll delve deep into the intricacies of oral acne treatments, unraveling their mechanisms and the nuanced aspect of their pros and cons. From the molecular level to their practical application, we will aim to equip you with knowledge that goes beyond the surface, empowering and educating you to make informed decisions about your skincare journey. 

But First, Science

Before we dive into the specifics, let's get a grip on how acne comes to be. Understanding the science behind it sets the stage for why these oral treatments can be game-changers for where and when they might intervene in the acne formation process.

Visualize the process: an overproduction of sebum combines with dead skin cells, leading to pore congestion. The introduction of bacteria exacerbates the situation, resulting in the development of pus-filled pimples. 

Now that we've outlined this process, let's delve into the clinical aspect – exploring the top oral treatments for acne.

Top Oral Treatments For Acne

Doxycycline

Doxycycline, a tetracycline antibiotic, is prescribed to treat acne by reducing pore bacteria and alleviating inflammation. It is available in pill or capsule form, either as a generic medication or under brand names like Doryx, Vibramycin, Oracea, Adoxa, and more. Typically, healthcare providers recommend a course lasting up to four months.

Pros: Doxycycline is effective in treating inflammatory acne conditions by reducing acne-causing bacteria. In addition, it has the ability to improve collagen architecture, thereby aiding in acne scar reduction.

Cons: It is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be suitable for certain groups, such as pregnant individuals or those allergic to tetracycline antibiotics. While generally well-tolerated, doxycycline, like all medications, can cause side effects. Although most are relatively mild and manageable, some people may experience symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, painful urination, anxiety, swollen tongue, and more.

Isotretinoin

You might be familiar with the medication Accutane, which is essentially a brand name for isotretinoin. Isotretinoin stands out as the sole oral therapy that addresses all major factors contributing to acne. Its remarkable efficacy stems from its influence on cell-cycle progression, cellular differentiation, cell survival, and apoptosis.

Pros: Dermatologists often prescribe isotretinoin for deep, painful acne cysts and nodules that haven't responded to other treatments. This medication can effectively reduce or clear severe acne, preventing new acne scars. For those who claim to have tried everything without success, isotretinoin often emerges as a solution.

Cons: Similar to any prescription medication, isotretinoin comes with potential side effects. Some of the more severe ones include thinning hair, eyesight issues, muscle or joint pain, and dryness leading to chapped lips, nosebleeds, or irritated eyes.

Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin, belonging to the penicillin class of antibiotics, is akin to cephalexin, making it a suitable option for individuals unable to tolerate tetracycline antibiotics due to pregnancy or allergies.

Pros: This antibiotic extends anti-inflammatory benefits, contributing to the reduction of acne. It proves especially beneficial for pregnant women or those with allergies to alternative antibiotics.

Cons: In comparison to other oral antibiotics for acne, amoxicillin generally exhibits fewer side effects. However, users may still experience occasional nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.

Birth Control

Generally, the recommendation to use birth control as an acne treatment is for healthy women seeking contraception as well. This approach is typically considered when other acne treatments, including topical creams and various oral options, have proven ineffective in achieving clear skin.

Pros: As discussed earlier, acne is triggered by an excess production of sebum, the oily substance made by glands in your skin. Birth control pills containing both estrogen and progesterone help lower the levels of androgens in your body, resulting in reduced sebum production and milder acne. Additionally, it serves as a contraceptive for those seeking one.

Cons: Birth control does come with potential adverse side effects, including breast tenderness, nausea, weight gain, and an increased risk of breast cancer, cervical cancer, and cardiovascular problems. Some women may also experience mental side effects like depression or anxiety. It's important to note that birth control is primarily a potential treatment option for women, not men.

In exploring these oral treatments, it becomes clear that acne management requires a tailored approach. Whether considering Doxycycline, Isotretinoin, Amoxicillin, or Birth Control, it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable path for your unique situation. Remember, individual responses vary, and what works for one may not work for another. If you're on the journey to clearer skin, stay informed, stay vigilant, and consult the experts.

 

An Alternative To Oral Treatments

While oral treatments can be highly effective in addressing acne, it's essential to acknowledge the substantial side effects that accompany many of these solutions. With the exception of Accutane (in some cases only), none provide a permanent resolution.

If you're seeking a long-term solution that eradicates pimples without the drawbacks of side effects and the need for a prescription, consider AviClear©. This drug-free and pill-free permanent treatment directly targets the root cause of acne.

Pros: Just three, 30-minute sessions in person and you’re set. AviClear© specifically targets the source of the oily substance on your skin. After treatment, you will produce less oil, and your acne will get better and stay better. Finally, results that provide lasting clearance.

Cons: AviClear© might be onto something extraordinary because, surprisingly, it didn't get the memo on having downsides. It's like the overachiever of skincare – no cons allowed!

Your future of clear, acne-free skin is just one click and three quick treatments away. Advanced, fast, and completely safe, AviClear© is the first and only FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild to severe acne. Be prepared to revolutionize your acne routine with no routine at all. No doctors, no pills, no prescriptions—just a collective 90 minutes until a clearer, more radiant you.

Discover the freedom of hassle-free skincare. Embrace the confidence that will enter your day-to-day. Unveil a brighter, blemish-free future. Take the first step towards lasting results with AviClear© today!