Acne

Acne is a skin condition involving plugged pores, inflamed papules and deeper cysts. Acne occurs on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Although most teenagers get some form of acne, adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s and even older can develop acne. Acne can be disfiguring, and untreated acne can leave permanent scars. At Associated Dermatologists, we will use the latest and most innovative treatments to improve your acne.

Medications can help manage the severity and frequency of acne outbreaks. A number of medications are available. Your treatment will depend on the type of acne you have (pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, or cystic lesions). These medications improve acne by:

• Unplugging skin pores and stopping them from getting plugged with oil (tretinoin, which is sold as Retin-A).
• Killing bacteria (antibiotics).
• Reducing the amount of skin oil (isotretinoin).
• Reducing the effects of hormones in producing acne (certain oral contraceptive pills for women).

The best medical treatment for acne often is a combination of medications. These could include medication that you put on your skin (topical) and medication that you take by mouth (oral).