Acne is a common inflammatory skin disorder consisting of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or cysts on the face or body. Most acne problems occur during the adolescence, but it can sometimes occur before or even after the teenage years. Because it often involves the face, acne may exert a detrimental effect on one's self-esteem. Normally, minor acne is self-limited, but there are more severe forms that may require strong medication to avert any chance of permanent scarring. Our providers can recommend habitual changes in a person's lifestyle to help reduce the recurrence of breakouts. Additionally, there are many other treatments available.
Medications, both topical and systemic, are used to lessen the severity of outbreaks. There are a number of oral and topical medications available to treat mild to moderate acne. While the ingredients and directions vary from product to product, the topical medications work by either removing keratin that blocks your pores or fighting the bacteria that plays a role in the disease. Oral medications include the use of antibiotics, which not only counteract the effects of bacteria in acne, but in many cases, can also help to reduce the inflammation. Occasionally, patients suffer from severe forms of acne that either do not respond to conventional therapy or are at high risk of creating permanent scarring. These patients will often need a much stronger oral medication known as isotretinoin (Accutane®). This is a very effective medication but it carries with it some risks of side-effects which your physician will thoroughly discuss with you if this becomes necessary.