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Acne Specialist
Acne

Acne Treatment in Texas

The journey with acne is often marked with feelings of embarrassment and stress, regardless of your age. However, at Northstar Dermatology, our proficient team specializes in offering potent acne treatments to mitigate and even eradicate the most stubborn and relentless outbreaks. To embark on a path to radiant skin, contact Northstar Dermatology or schedule an appointment online today.

Northstar Dermatology:
Dermatology located in North Richland Hills, TX. Also serving Southlake, Colleyville, Keller, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, and Fort Worth, TX.
Acne: Questions & Insights
What Triggers Acne?

It’s not caused by dirt or dirty skin, so there’s no need to scrub your face aggressively. Several factors contribute to acne, but the root cause is a tiny clogged pore called a microcomedone. Hormones stimulate our oil glands, which then release oil, or sebum, into this blocked pore. When bacteria combine with the sebum, it triggers inflammation, resulting in red bumps, pus-filled spots, or cystic lesions. The severity of acne is influenced by our genetic background and certain environmental factors, like medications, stress, and potentially the food we eat.

Treatment Options:

A typical first line of treatment for acne is a topical retinoid product (e.g., Retin-A, tretinoin, adapalene, etc.) to address clogged pores. Retinoids promote cell turnover and help even out skin texture and tone while also offering anti-aging benefits. Another common recommendation in many acne regimens is benzoyl peroxide, available in various forms, such as cleansers and creams. Benzoyl peroxide acts as an antibacterial, targeting the bacteria that contribute to acne formation. In addition to retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, your dermatologist may incorporate other medicated or over-the-counter cleansers, topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics into your treatment plan. For severe, scarring acne, isotretinoin (formerly known as Accutane) is a first-line therapy.

For women with “hormonal acne,” a medication called spironolactone may be added. There are many treatment options, and no single routine works for everyone. Consult a board-certified dermatologist to determine the best acne treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Accutane (Isotretinoin) is a medication that is used to treat severe acne or acne that has not responded to other acne treatments. It is a vitamin A derivative that works by decreasing oil production and changing oil glands in the skin. Most of the time, oil production permanently decreases, which lowers the risk of acne returning long-term.

Accutane is a very effective medication, and it must be closely monitored by your healthcare provider. Accutane can be associated with side effects, the most serious of them all is birth defects. Females that are pregnant or trying to get pregnant cannot take this medication. In 2005, the FDA created an online monitoring program to make sure females are not and do not get pregnant while taking Accutane. This is
enforced with monthly pregnancy tests for all females.

Dry skin, dry lips, dry nose and dry eyes are the most commonly associated and expected side effects of Accutane. It is important to stay hydrated and use moisturizer and ChapStick while taking Accutane. Patients taking Accutane are also highly sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is an absolute must!

Laboratory work is required while taking Accutane. Liver function and triglyceride levels are monitored while on Accutane because Accutane is processed through the liver. The frequency of the lab work done is determined by your healthcare provider. Visits with your provider are required every month since Accutane can only be prescribed as a 30-day supply, as mandated by the governing program.

Accutane is a serious and closely monitored medication, and side effects should always be discussed with your provider. Accutane really helps to not only treat and cure acne, it also can change a person’s life by improving the appearance of their skin and in turn improving overall self-esteem.

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North Richland Hills

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