Acne Treatments

 In The Clear

     You can take control of acne!  Acne usually starts in the teen years because of the hormonal changes that happen as we mature.  The body begins to produce hormones called androgens, which are male hormones, but which are found in both boys and girls.  These hormones cause excess oil to build up in the pores.  When this oil clogs the pores, it leads to whiteheads and blackheads, also called comedones.

     When pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, bacteria called P. acnes that are already in the pores begin to increase.  Together, these lead to the inflamed, red pimples that you commonly see in acne.  In more severe acne, there can also be very large, deep blemishes on the skin called cysts; there may also be acne on the back and chest in addition to the face.  Other things that can contribute to acne are stress, environment, genetics, and the use of certain cosmetics.

     Some medications help reduce the buildup of excess oil and fight the bacteria that cause pimples.  Other medications help to unclog the pores.  Some treatments are oral (taken through the mouth) and some are topical (applied directly to the skin).  In fact, because acne usually involves a combination of causes, many teens may receive a combination of separate medications. 

     Be realistic about your acne treatments-No matter which medication your doctor recommends, an important thing you need to do is to set realistic expectations for your treatment.  It may take up to 3 months for you acne to clear up significantly.  This may be disappointing, because you want your acne to go away immediately.  That’s why it’s important to continue using the medication for as long as your doctor recommends.  Keep at it and it will pay off.