Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the excess oil produced by the oil glands in the skin is trapped under the skin, causing it to swell and form pimples, blackheads and whiteheads on the skin. There are a number of acne remedies depending on the severity of the condition. While acne itself is not a life threatening disease, it can certainly affect the individual’s self-esteem and quality of life.
When the right acne care is used, it is not difficult to keep it under control. Several options in the form of topical creams and antibiotics are available in the market. However, for those who suffer from chronic acne, it is advisable to have it diagnosed and managed by a dermatologist. Here is a review of acne remedies based on the level of severity. Severity is based on the number of bumps or lesions on the skin, the type of acne and its location on the body. The management of acne is based on the individual’s skin type and the type of acne.
Managing mild acne
For mild acne which is usually seen as non-inflammatory lesions, a topical retinoid is considered sufficient. Retinoids penetrate the skin, get rid of the lesions or “comedones” and ensure that the acne does not recur. If the lesions are large, they may need to be removed at a clinic. Some commonly used retinoids are Treninoin, isotreninoin, adapalene, tazarotine, and retinaldehyde. These can be used alone or combined with other acne care regimens that include non-retinoids and antibiotic skin creams.
Managing moderate acne
Moderate acne presents itself as several lesions or comedones, pustules and nodules. The ideal acne care for moderate concentrations of acne includes oral prescription drugs in the form of antibiotics, oral retinoids and in some cases, hormonal therapy. Moderate acne can result in scarred skin, which is why oral drugs such as erythromycin, trimethoprim and tetracycline are prescribed. Even after the course of medications, the other acne threapies are continued.
For women who develop acne because of hirsutism (excessive hairiness) the possibility of ovarian or adrenal dysfunction must first be ruled out. Such women might be prescribed anti-androgens since the condition is caused by the production of excess androgen by the ovaries and adrenal glands
Managing severe acne
When a person suffers from severe acne the skin is highly inflamed due to excessive sebum and intense scarring. This form of acne requires prescription oral Isotretonin. If the acne is extremely severe on the back and chest, low doses are prescribed to minimize adverse side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, problems with vision and liver damage. Before the drug is prescribed, the necessary blood work including lipid tests, liver function and complete blood counts are done. In some instances, where the patient has a relapse, the acne therapy is started all over again.
Managing acne in pregnant women
For pregnant women, the most effective acne care is through oral and topical erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide. If there is severe acne, some short term oral steroids may be prescribed. The doctor also has to ensure that there are no harmful side effects to the foetus.
Other acne management methods
Severe acne may need physical therapies where the lesions are aspired out. The scars also need be repaired through collagen and steroid injections, chemical peeling, surgery or laser therapy depending on the size, location and concentration of the . After the acne is controlled, the dermatologist usually recommends continuing the topical retinoids.
The good news is that acne is completely curable and in most cases, a combination of acne care strategies is used to resolve acne. It is best to seek care at the first sign of mild acne as allowing it to develop can lead to scarring of the .