Acne Treatment History

Acne was treated using hot mineral water in Ancient Rome, using baths and sometimes using sulphur.

People continuously used sulphur throughout 1800 as it helps dry out and exfoliate your skin.

In 1920, people began to use Benzoyl Peroxide which is still used nowadays. We can find it in the composition of the anti-Acne cream called 'Brevoxyl' in a concentration of 4%.

In 1930, Laxatives were being used for the condition know at the time as 'Chastity pustules'. It was considered that virgins could not eradicate toxins from their body as they did not have any sexual contact. Generally they used laxatives against Acne. Still, they were not far from the truth as nowadays doctors know that constipation can be a cause of Acne as toxins accumulate in the body, however, sex has nothing to do with eliminating toxins.

In 1950, antibiotics were finally used in treating Acne caused by germs. Most of all, tetracycline was used with great results, but nowadays it is no longer used as it has lost its effect against some skin germs and her place was taken by more powerful antibiotics.

1960 is the year when 'Tretionine', also known as 'Retin A' was discovered to have a beneficial effect against Acne. Later on the oral Isotretionine was made and the battle against Acne became easier. These products are still used nowadays with the same great effects on Acne. They are mostly used by people in the US.

In 1980, a famous anti-Acne product called 'Accutane' appeared in the American market. Its results on an Acne skin are astonishing and that is why it is still used today. Accutane is not without it’s side effects so please be careful before considering this form of treatment.

In 1990, Laser Therapy made its first steps in treating Acne and now it has perfected in such a way that it does not only cure Acne but it can clear the skin from recent and even old acne scars. Of course the process if quite expensive but the result of laser therapy is a perfectly normal skin which all people suffering of Acne are dreaming of. Further more, it does not hurt at all and you are not obliged to hide in the house for a few days as you have to do after chemical peeling procedures.

In 2000, the blue/red therapy has developed along with laser therapy and Acne can be treated easily. Seeing what our ancestors did to cure Acne shows us how the humanity has evolved and also give acne sufferers hope. Who knows, in a few years time we may not require acne treatment. Until then, the elusive nature of this skin condition continues to frustrate us.