Severe acne can be detrimental to the thin layers of skin on your forehead and face. It can also cause extreme irritation, resulting in open wounds, puss-filled pores, and unsightly scarring.

This type of acne is quite different than mild or moderate cases. Severe acne needs the immediate attention of a qualified dermatologist and your family practitioner.

Severe or acute acne can be caused by both environmental and genetic variables. Prevention and treatment are the best ways to deal with such cases. Seldom does an extreme acne sufferer's skin clear up naturally, but in most instances, it actually worsens.

Usually a dermatologist will recommend a combination of both topical cream and oral drugs. Several types available include different antibiotics, benzyl peroxides, Tretinoin, Adapalen and the strong, yet effective Azelaic Acid. Antibiotics and this acid can work wonderfully, attacking the source of inflammation-the bacteria lining the follicle.

The other topical drug, Tretinoin, is simply a form of vitamin A that stops the development of comedones, or inflamed hair follicles. While it doesn't necessarily stop the growth of bacteria, this is a more natural way of unplugging clogged pores that cause inflammation and lesions, thereby allowing the use of topical antibiotic cream to work deeply within the skin.

Another drug that isn't so natural in it's approach are the newer forms of Retinoid drugs. These drugs are quite powerful in the way they work. Like Tretinoin, these drugs, often Tazarotene or Adapalen, also help to fight off the development of comedones or comedo lesions.

These drugs, although not available

About the Author: Steve Williams is a freelance writer, who suffered acne for many years. His research into prevention and acne cures have helped him, and other fellow sufferers. Discover useful advice and information about the causes and prevention of acne. Website contains useful articles and updated information on this nasty skin condition. Click ==> http://www.acne-treatment-zap.com/