Acne, Part II

Several weeks ago, we discussed the causes and types of acne.  Today, I am going to cover the various treatments available to the millions of patients with this condition.

Treatment
Treatment options can be divided into over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-based.  Here is my personal acne regimen. I would generally recommend that anyone with acne be initially evaluated by a physician such as a dermatologist.  This is important to further classify your subtype of acne and to have individualized recommendations made by your own personal physician.  For example, if acne is primarily inflammatory (many pustules) or nodulocystic (deep, painful bumps), then oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin (Accutane) may be indicated.  In addition, the risk of scarring is greater with these types of acne, and oral treatments may be indicated for this reason as well.  Rarely, acne may be caused by an underlying medical illness and likewise, other medical conditions may mimic acne.  Therefore, I recommend seeing a physician.

Dermatology topic: Acne, Part 1

The Problem
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions seen by community based dermatologists.  About 40-50 million Americans have acne at any point in time. It is estimated that 85% of teenagers will suffer from the condition; however, we are seeing it more commonly into adulthood, particularly in women.  Women in the mid-20s and up tend to show a more "hormonal" pattern of acne in which it is distributed more on the chin, jaw, and chest.

Skin care: What I'm using now

This is my current skin care regimen.  It is the most intense regimen I have ever had, but it's working for me.  Many of these things I have used for years (Retin-A...which I swear by and intend to use until the end of time).  Others are relatively new for me (Clarisonic, La Roche Posay dual treatment).  I want to give it a few more weeks, but I am planning on doing product reviews on some of these newer products.  I have very acne-prone skin, so this regimen is obviously skewed towards acne management.  For those of you out there with acne, this post is to foreshadow my upcoming topic series on acne and acne treatment.