In the U.S. alone, more than $1.4 billon is spent on acne medications and treatments each year. In many instances, the money spent yields less than satisfactory results and causes bothersome or dangerous side effects. Most prescription medications, such as antibiotics, require at least three months of continuous treatment before any improvement can be expected. Often, a second, third or fourth cycle of therapy is needed.

Over-the-Counter Products

There are numerous non-prescription acne cleansers, astringents, moisturizers and pimple creams available at local drug stores. Some help unplug whiteheads and blackheads while others help encourage the skin to shed. It's important to use all products as directed. Many experts recommend giving over-the-counter products no more than six to eight weeks to work. If there is no improvement in acne during that time period, a dermatologist may be seen to explore other treatment options. Many over-the-counter products are available in stronger "prescription only" formulas.

Prescription Gels, Creams and Lotions

Topical Antibiotics: These "prescription only" products help fight acne by killing the bacteria that infect the pores. Sometimes acne may become resistant to the antibiotics, rendering them useless. Side effects can include dry, red skin and an increase in sun sensitivity. Commonly prescribed topical antibiotics include Cleocin T and Azelex.

Oral Antibiotics: These systemic medications affect the entire body and therefore can cause serious side effects. Some antibiotics, such as tetracycline, need to be taken on an empty stomach. Side effects can include nausea and dizziness.

Vitamin A Derivatives: These retinoid medications prevent skin cells from clumping together and encourage shedding. Usually applied once a day, these medications can increase sensitivity to the sun, so it's important that patients use sunscreen. Other side effects can include dryness, redness and irritation. Common Vitamin A derivatives include Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac. One particular retinoid, Accutane, has been shown to cause more serious side effects, including psychological disorders and, in rare cases, birth defects. Sexually active women who take this medication must use contraception during treatment and have monthly lab work performed.

Birth Control Pills: These are prescribed for women who have flare-ups that occur at the same time each month during the menstrual cycle. The pills help control the hormones that prompt oil production in the skin. Women should consult their physician to determine which birth control pills are most appropriate for particular skin conditions.

New Treatment Option: Clearlight^TM Acne Therapy

There is a new paradigm for the treatment of acne. It involves a short treatment regimen with impressive results and no side effects, pain or downtime.

ClearLight uses Acne PhotoClearing^TM technology to destroy acne-causing bacteria within the skin. Applied in eight treatments over a four week period, most patients see a dramatic decrease in the number and severity of acne lesions; some report significant improvements after only two or three sessions.

What to Expect

During treatment sessions, which last approximately 15 minutes, the patient lies comfortably while the high-intensity ClearLight illuminates the acne. Protective eyewear is used during all treatments. The ClearLight utilizes a unique spectrum of light that causes the acne bacteria to self-destruct, while having no effect on the normal skin. The therapy is suitable to treat all areas of the body, including the back, chest and face. Patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment. The ClearLight was designed to treat mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Effective Results

ClearLight effectively clears most moderate inflammatory acne within four weeks. Results are especially impressive when compared with conventional treatments, such as topical medicines and oral antibiotics.

Continue to: Before & After Photos