acne
Acne
Acne is a common condition consisting of clogged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), inflamed pimples (pustules) and deeper lumps (nodules or cysts). It usually involves the face, but can also be present on the neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Although mostly teenagers suffer from some degree of acne, adults in their 20s, 30s, or 40s can also battle this condition. Acne can be disfiguring and upsetting to the patient. Untreated acne can leave permanent scars, so treating acne is important. If scarring does develop, there are procedures we can perform which can address acne scarring.
Cleansing
We recommend washing twice a day with a mild cleanser. Many times topical acne medications that we recommend can be strong, therefore avoiding harsh cleansers is usually advised. There are also specific anti-acne cleansers which your provider may recommend as part of your overall treatment plan.
Diet
If certain foods seem to make acne worse, then try to avoid them. Generally it is felt that acne is not caused by foods. Exceptions to this would be foods or supplements which contain hormone simulating agents.
Treatment
Controlling acne is an ongoing process and must be continued to maintain results. Typically treatment plans require two to three months until results are maximized.
Topicals
We may prescribe topical creams, gels or lotions with vitamin A related drugs, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics to help unclog the pores and reduce bacteria. These products may cause some dryness or irritation, so we will advise you on how to use the products correctly and how to avoid side effects. Before starting any medication, even topicals, inform you doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Procedures
Extraction of blackheads and whiteheads may be recommended by your doctor. Do not pick, scratch, pop, or squeeze pimple yourself. This may result in more redness, swelling and scarring. Microdermabrasion may be used to remove the upper layers of the skin improving the irregularities in the surface and generating new skin. Light chemical peels with salicylic acid or glycolic acid help to unclog the pores and stimulate new skin growth. Injections of corticosteroids may be used for treating large red bumps (nodules or cysts) to hasten their resolutions.
Oral
There are choices for systemic therapy for acne depending on its severity. For females using oral contraceptives or a drug called spironolactone can be very effective. Oral antibiotics can also be considered to obtain control of the acne until topical therapies can take effect. For more severe or refractory cases a drug called isotretinoin can be very effective and usually requires 6 months of therapy.
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