Managing acne vulgaris effectively.

The management of acne is a gratifying experience. Available treatments are effective, relatively nontoxic and generally safe. However, there is no quick fix. Antibiotics, hormone therapies and topical therapies are maintenance treatments. Isotretinoin can induce remission, as can some of the newer physical modalities of lights, lasers and radiofrequency devices. Effective management of acne often requires using a combination of treatments that act on different parts of the pathogenic process of acne development.