What class of medications is considered the standard treatment for severe acne?

The standard treatment for severe acne is typically oral antibiotics. This class of medications is effective in reducing inflammation and decreasing the level of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Severe acne often manifests as widespread lesions or nodules, and treating it requires more than just topical therapies. Oral antibiotics help to lessen the bacterial load and control the inflammatory response associated with severe acne, providing a more systemic approach to treatment.

While topical treatments, such as retinoid creams, may also be useful, they are generally more suitable for mild to moderate cases. Vitamin A, in the context of acne treatment, refers to retinoids, which can be topical or oral, but oral formulations carry significant side effects and are not typically the first line for severe presentations. Topical steroids can help with inflammation but are not the primary choice for treating severe acne and may sometimes worsen the condition when used improperly. This highlights why oral antibiotics stand out as the most common and effective initial treatment for severe acne cases.