Usually, the first choice for treating acne is a tetracycline (minocycline, doxycycline) or a macrolide (erythromycin, azithromycin). A macrolide may be an option for people who can't take tetracyclines, including pregnant women and children younger than 8 years old. That's why we met with dermatologist expert Dr. Lingam to talk about the main acne treatment options.
Keep reading if you're ready to discover the best ways to treat acne and the powerful acne removal techniques that dermatologists trust. Lingam tells us: “This topical acne treatment option, which is normally applied at night, helps prevent clogged pores by encouraging the removal of skin cells, accelerating cell renewal and delaying collagen degradation. However, these medications are strong and can cause skin irritation and dryness. Therefore, you may need to get used to this type of treatment using it every other night or every three nights at the start of therapy. To make it more pleasant on the skin, mixing topical retinoids with a moisturizer can help reduce dryness and irritation.
When used during the summer months, topical retinoids can make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it's important to apply sunscreen every day. I also often recommend combining topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin and minocycline (Amzeeq), with benzoyl peroxide to help reduce the likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance. These medications include BenzaClin, Duac and others. Dr.
Lingam tells us, “This acne medication has antibacterial properties and can be used safely not only during pregnancy but also while breastfeeding. In addition, it can help control the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that occurs with some forms of acne. I recommend that these medications be used for the shortest time possible to help prevent antibiotic resistance. In addition, combining these antibiotics with benzoyl peroxide helps reduce the risk of bacterial resistance.
This effective acne treatment also doesn't require continuous use; isotretinoin is a short-term treatment that takes approximately 5 to 6 months to complete. However, it does require routine lab checks and monthly visits with us during this type of therapy, as the side effects of isotretinoin can be serious. Lingam's expert advice? “Many patients start treating acne at home with over-the-counter products that include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or glycolic acid, cleansers facials and leave-in products. This is a good starting point at the first sign of acne.
However, if over-the-counter treatments and products prove ineffective in controlling acne, we recommend that you contact us for a thorough evaluation and to discuss topical and oral prescription treatments. If you have acne, you're not alone. The Center for Surgical Dermatology is a leader in treating acne, so book an appointment online here or call (61) 847-4100 to schedule an appointment to start cleaning your skin today. What type of acne (i.e., this is beneficial not only for treating acne but also for improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles).
For example, some people confuse hidradenitis suppurativa, also called acne inversa, with everyday acne.
