Treatment

• Azelaic acid

This is a natural acid found in various grains such as barley, wheat and rye. It kills microorganisms on your skin and reduces swelling.

• Benzoyl peroxide

This is available as an over-the-counter product (such as Clearasil®, Stridex® and PanOxyl®). Lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating to your skin. Irritation (dryness) is a common side effect.

• Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives)

Retinoids, such as Retin-A®, Tazorac® and Differin® help prevent clogged pores. You may notice a change in skin color or peeling. Using retinoids every other day or using them at the same time as a moisturizer can reduce these side effects.

• Salicylic acid

This is available over-the-counter for pimples as a cleanser or lotion. It helps dissolve dead skin cells to prevent your hair follicles from clogging.

• Resorcinol

Helps break down blackheads and whiteheads

• Other therapies may include

Talk to your healthcare provider before trying these below three — they may be irritating and make acne worse.

• Chemical peels

Chemical peels use a mild chemical solution to remove layers of skin and reduce pimples.

• Laser skin resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at your pimples. The light beams reduce the amount of oil that your sebaceous glands produce.

• Microdermabrasion

A dermatologist or plastic surgeon uses a specialized instrument to “sand” your skin. Removing the top layers of your skin frees the clogs that cause pimples.

Acne tests

• Your health care provider can diagnose acne by looking at your skin. Testing is not needed in most cases. Bacterial culture may be performed with certain patterns of acne or to check for infection if large pus bumps persist.

Home remedies

• Tea tree oil

• Sugar or salt scrubs

• Green tea

• Warm compress

• Ice

Diet

• Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apricots, and sweet potatoes

• Spinach and other dark green and leafy vegetables

• Tomatoes

• Blueberries

• Whole-wheat bread

• Brown rice

• Quinoa

• Turkey

• Pumpkin seeds

• Beans, peas, and lentils

• Salmon, mackerel, and other kinds of fatty fish

• Nuts