The experience of dealing with acne is frequently accompanied by feelings of embarrassment and stress, no matter your age. At Northstar Dermatology, our skilled team provides a suite of effective acne treatments designed to reduce and even eliminate the most persistent outbreaks. To begin your journey to clearer skin, call our office today or conveniently schedule an appointment online.
Acne is not caused by dirty or unclean skin, so there’s no need for aggressively scrubbing your face. While multiple factors contribute to acne development, the main issue arises from a tiny blocked pore called a microcomedone. Hormonal fluctuations stimulate our oil glands, prompting them to produce oil, or sebum, which can become trapped in these obstructed pores.
When bacteria combine with the sebum, it triggers inflammation, resulting in red bumps, pus-filled lesions, or cystic outbreaks. The severity of acne can be influenced by genetic factors and various environmental elements, including medications, stress levels, and even diet.
A typical first-line treatment for acne often includes topical retinoids, such as Retin-A, tretinoin, or adapalene to address clogged pores. These retinoids promote cell turnover and enhance skin texture and tone while also offering anti-aging benefits. Another commonly recommended component of acne treatment regimens is benzoyl peroxide, which comes in various forms, including cleansers and creams.
Benzoyl peroxide functions as an antibacterial agent, specifically targeting the bacteria that contribute to the development of acne. In addition to retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, your dermatologist may incorporate other medicated cleansers, topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics into your treatment plan. For individuals with harsh scarring acne, isotretinoin (formerly known as Accutane) is often regarded as a primary treatment option.
Women experiencing “hormonal acne” may also benefit from spironolactone as a part of their regimen. With a wide range of treatment options available, it’s crucial to understand that there is no universal solution. Meeting with a board-certified dermatologist will help you identify the most effective acne treatment plan and tailor it to your specific needs.
Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a medication formulated to address severe acne or instances where other treatments have not been successful. As a derivative of vitamin A, it works by decreasing oil production and modifying the activity of the skin’s oil glands. This often leads to a long-term reduction in oil production, significantly diminishing the likelihood of acne reappearing in the future.
While Accutane is very effective, it requires careful oversight by your healthcare provider due to potential, severe side effects, like birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant must avoid this medication. To mitigate risk, the FDA launched an online monitoring program in 2005, which includes monthly pregnancy tests, to ensure that women taking Accutane do not become pregnant.
Common side effects associated with Accutane include dry skin, chapped lips, nasal dryness, and dry eyes. It is vital to remain hydrated, use moisturizers, and apply lip balm during treatment. Furthermore, patients on Accutane have an increased sensitivity to sunlight, making the use of sunscreen essential as well.
While undergoing Accutane treatment, regular lab tests are necessary to monitor liver function and triglyceride levels, as the medication is processed by the liver. Your healthcare provider will determine how often these tests need to be conducted. Monthly check-ups are also mandatory since Accutane can only be prescribed in 30-day increments, as stipulated by the monitoring program.
Accutane is a powerful medication that demands diligent monitoring, and any side effects, however small, should be openly discussed with your healthcare provider. It not only effectively treats and clears acne but can also greatly improve a person’s appearance, leading to a significant boost in self-esteem.
