Acne
Acne is a common skin condition in teenagers. It may be embarrassing and cause a decrease in self-esteem. Some simple treatments may make them look and feel better. There are various types of pimples which occur secondary to a blockage of the sebaceous glands. Medications used to treat acne are meant to unblock or prevent blockage of these pores and control inflammation.
Types of acne:
- Open or closed comedones (black heads or white heads).
- Papules-reddened bumps.
- Pustules-pimples filled with pus.
- Nodular or cystic acne-most likely to result in scarring.
Risk Factors:
- Anything that blocks pores, such as certain creams, lotions or hair oils.
- Sweating during exercise
- Emotional stress and fatigue
- Menstrual cycle
- Family history of acne
- Certain medications
Acne is not made worse by eating certain foods.
Treatment: Most acne can be treated at your doctor's office. If it does not respond to treatment or is severe (nodular or cystic) we may refer to a dermatologist for treatment. Some common treatments include:
- Cleaning with mild soap and water-do not over scrub, it may increase acne.
- Topical medications are very helpful, often, more than one type is necessary. All treatments take 4-8 weeks to see improvement. Some of the common topical medications include benzoyl peroxide, often combined with a topical antibiotic. Retin-A which is effective in both preventing and treating blocked pores. A topical antibiotic such as erythromycin and clindamycin often combined with benzoyl peroxide is helpful.
- Oral medications are used when topicals alone are not effective. One of the most commonly used oral medications are antibiotics. These include antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline or minocycline. For females, birth control pills are also useful to treat acne. They work by decreasing certain types of hormones which contribute to acne.
If the above medications do not work then referral to a dermatologist is necessary. Their treatments may include Acutane for nodular or cystic acne. It is very effective, however, there are side effects which will be discussed with you before the medication is begun. Also, laser treatments and other newer treatments may be provided by a dermatologist.