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 over the counter (OTC), come in different forms. Similar to OTC drugs, these come in a variety of solutions, gels, lotions and creams. Your dermatologist will immediately know which type is right for your skin and prescribe what she or he believes will most effectively open pores and fight-off unwanted bacteria.

Dermatologist will routinely ask you which form of medication you'd prefer. Creams are good for those with extra sensitive skin, while gels and other solutions tend to make the skin become more dry and irritated. He or she may recommend one or the other based on gender and/or whether you live in a hot and humid climate.

At first, your skin may look and feel worse with the use of such strong medications. If the pain becomes unbearable or if you develop a rash or extreme redness of any kind, be sure to stop using the product and immediately talk to your doctor and dermatologist.

Similarly to OTC treatments, it will take up to eight weeks for you to actually notice improvements. But, once it begins to clear, it will make a world of difference to how your skin looks and feels.