CAUSES and TREATMENTS OF ACNE
ACNE and blemishes are among the most common skin disorders. Acne is a very common skin disorder affecting the hair follicle. Acne is often inflammatory and is characterized by comedones (clogged pores) and pimples (papules and pustules), due in part to the excessive production of sebum (skin oil) by the sebaceous glands in the follicle. Acne is not a serious medical condition, and can usually be kept under control with treatment. Although scarring is common,
TREATMENT during and after an outbreak can help. Acne
medications heal existing acne lesions, prevent lesions from recurring and prevent scarring. Acne medications such as retinoids can help reduce symptoms. In severe cases, acne surgery may be necessary to help clear skin. Acne medications are available with or without a prescription, in the form of
topical treatments, such as gels and lotions, or
oral pill form.
Prescription medications includes:
1.) topical retinoids
2.) antibiotics
3.) oral retinoids
4.) oral antibiotics
5.) hormonal therapy
Acne medications treat acne in five ways:
1.) Exfoliation and normalizing of skin cell production
2.) Elimination or reduction of the acne-producing bacteria
3.) Removal of materials that clog the pores
4.) Elimination or reduction of inflammation
5.) Reduction of sebum secretion. Sebaceous gland activity is decreased
Types and differences of acne medications
A number of factors influence which type of acne medication or combination of acne medications is prescribed. Dermatologists will consider the severity of the condition and the types of lesions present, as well as the patient’s age, skin type and lifestyle.
Over-the-Counter Products Generic Name Brand Name benzoyl peroxide (topical)
Benzagel
Brevoxyl
Desquam-E
PanOxyl
salicylic acid (topical)
Clearasil
Noxzema
OxyClean
sulfur
Cuticura Ointment
Finac
Fostril Lotion
Lotio Alsulfa
Sulpho-Lac
Non Over-the-Counter Products Category Generic Name Brand Name Retinoids
tretinoin (topical)
Avita
Renova
Retin-A
adapalene (topical)
Differin
tazarotene (topical)
Tazorac
AVAGE
isotretinoin (oral)
Accutane
Roaccutane
Azelaic Acid
azelaic acid (topical)
Azelex
Finacea
Antibiotics
clindamycin
(topical or oral)
Cleocin
erythromycin (topical)
Akne-Mycin
A/T/S
Del-Mycin
Erycette
EryDerm
Erymax
Ery-Sol
Erythra-Derm
Staticin
T-State
Theramycin Z
erythromycin (oral)
E-Mycin
Eryc
Ilosone
PCE
Robimycin
trimethoprim/ sulfamethoxazole
(oral)
Bactrim
Septra
tetracycline (oral)
Novotetra
Panmycin
Robitet
Sumycin
Tetralan
minocycline (oral)
Dynacin
Minocin
doxycycline (oral)
Bio–Tab
Doryx
Vibramycin
Antiandrogens
spironolactone
Aldactone
There are a wide variety of oral contraceptive pills that contain
estrogen and/or
progestin. Physicians will decide which type is most appropriate for use on an individual basis. These medications are often used in combination with other forms of acne treatment.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Acne Treatment
Good skin care plays an important role in treating acne. Following these skin care guidelines—unless your
Dermatologist instructs otherwise—can help improve treatment results:
Do NOT pop, squeeze or pick at acne.This can make acne worse by spreading inflammation. With medical treatment, removing lesions is rarely necessary; however, when comedo removal is needed, it should be performed by an experienced healthcare professional.
Gently wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser and pat dry.Acne is not caused by poor hygiene, and vigorous washing and scrubbing will not clear your skin. In fact, all that scrubbing can irritate your skin and make acne worse. The way to clear acne is with appropriate acne
Products and good skin care.
Use “noncomedogenic” (does not clog pores) cosmetics and toiletries.When buying cosmetics and other products that you will use on your skin or hair, be sure to look for ones labeled “noncomedogenic.” Makeup, sunscreen and toiletries that are not likely to cause acne state that they are “noncomedogenic” on the product.
Avoid aggravating your acne.Oily hair, sporting equipment that rubs against your skin and airborne grease—all can irritate and make your acne worse. Ways you can avoid these situations include:
If you have oily hair, keep it off your face and wash it daily.
Avoid using hair care products that contain oil, such as pomades and gels.
Wear cotton clothing or moleskin under sporting equipment to avoid skin-to-equipment contact.
Give acne products enough time to do their job.Ask a dermatologist (or pharmacist) how much time is needed for each particular product to work. This way you’ll know when you can expect to see clearing and not stop using the product(s) before you see results. As a rule of thumb, it takes 6 to 8 weeks before you begin to see an improvement.
Use medications as directed.Using more medication than directed will not improve results. In fact, it can make acne worse by aggravating the skin. Be sure to read all labels and use accordingly or as instructed by a dermatologist.
Avoid excess exposure to sunlight, and do not use tanning booths or sun lamps.Contrary to popular belief, tanning does not clear acne; it simply masks acne. Tanning also increases one’s risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers. Additionally, some acne treatments can increase the skin''s sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet light from tanning booths and sun lamps. If you have acne, it is important to protect your skin by following sun-protection practices, such as wearing sunscreen and avoiding sunburns.
If after following these guidelines, you are not satisfied with the results from your acne treatment, be sure to see a dermatologist. Today, almost every case of acne can be cleared, especially with a dermatologist''s help.
More abstracts about the ACNE (causes, treatments and preventions)