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Acne is a dermal condition that occurs when the hair follicles become clogged with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. The presence of bacteria in such areas can result in pimples or mild infections. Acne treatments eliminate this skin condition. Several options include:
- Topical medication
- Lifestyle remedies
- Medical procedures
- Oral medication
People can select any of the treatment options depending on the severity of the condition. Simple procedures work well for mild to moderate acne, which may feature blackheads or whiteheads. On the other hand, cystic or inflammatory acne may require more complex treatment programs. A highly trained physician performs a diagnosis to identify the type of acne present.
Acne Treatment Options
Severe acne is treatable with the right medical procedure. Individuals with this condition have to undergo procedures treatment at the medical centre. It is worth mentioning that some of these procedures can be painful and even scarring. Additionally, there may be no health insurance coverage for them. Hence, it is essential to consult a health insurance provider or officer to learn more on this subject before commencing an acne treatment.
Once addressed, the doctor performs drainage and extraction. This process works by draining large cysts from the underlayer of the skin. The technique flushes pus, dirt, fluids, and dead skin responsible for pain and infection. Additionally, antibiotics help to increase the healing process and prevent scarring. Some physicians recommend laser therapy to eliminate bacteria responsible for acne. There are other remedies as well.
Topical Medications
Topical acne products contain an active ingredient. This can be either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. They reduce excess oil and fight inflammation. In the process, the skin becomes devoid of blemishes. Such medications may include creams, gels, and lotions. When using them, apply a thin coat twice a day. In some cases, OTC medications may not be potent enough to get the desired result. As such, a dermatologist can prescribe topical options, some of which contains tretinoin, clindamycin or more potent benzoyl peroxide. These active ingredients kill the bacteria.
Oral Treatment
Also known as systemic treatments, this medication can be ingested and absorbed to combat moderate to severe acne. However, they come with a prescription. Individuals can use this treatment option when topical acne products fail to produce the desired result. Oral medications include the use of antibiotics, birth control pills, and Isotretinoin.
For antibiotics, tetracycline is the go-to remedy in treating acne. It eradicates bacteria within the skin pores and gets rid of infections. Birth control pills are also effective in regulating hormone levels. As such, women can become acne-free. However, avoid using such pills during pregnancy. There are other ways to eradicate breakouts.
Another drug a dermatologist may recommend is Isotretinoin, which belongs in the retinoid family. This potent drug dries up excess oil by shrinking the oil gland. It also prevents blockage of the pores. People with acute cystic acne can use this type of medication. Kindly bear in mind that it comes with severe side effects as well.
Treating Acne During Pregnancy
Acne is one of the skin conditions most people cannot avoid. Teenagers tend to experience this a lot. Even adults are not left behind. For the older age group, acne may occur during pregnancy. As a result, such individuals will need treatment, which may vary based on the person. Treating acne with specific medications during pregnancy is not safe. Topic products containing retinoids fall under the category C drug classification; this includes tretinoin. But what does this mean? According to some animal studies, such medications can endanger a developing foetus when administered in large amounts.
Other foetus-harming medications include tetracycline and isotretinoin. According to research, the latter is responsible for birth defects. On the other hand, the former leads to teeth discolouration in babies. For these reasons, doctors advise against using such products. Topical acne medications containing benzoyl peroxide remains the ideal remedy.
Treating Acne with Modification to Lifestyles
Slightly changing daily routines can improve an individual’s wellbeing. In such states, the skin cannot develop acne. And even if it does, it disappears after a short while. Often, this dermal condition stems from oil build-up. It is essential to keep the face and hair free of such substance. Greasy hair comes in contact with bedding and pillowcases and stays trapped. Using such clothing for prolonged periods can increase the risk of acne. To prevent this outcome, individuals should change their pillowcases and bed sheets daily or weekly.
Another factor worth considering is the face. Keeping this body part fresh can prevent acne. wash the face with a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm water at least twice daily. Avoid scrubbing the area forcefully. Harsh skincare products, like oil-based makeup and scented lotions, are a big no-no! Instead, use “non-comedogenic” sunscreens and moisturizers. Why is this necessary? Such products don’t fill in the pores.
Are There Side Effects?
The assumption that acne treatments are free from adverse effects is a far-fetched notion. Every product has its upsides and downsides, and acne medications are no different from the rest. However, such outcomes vary based on the applied method and medicinal potency.
Oral medications come with side effects that may cause discomfort. For example, certain antibiotics produce sensations ranging from dizziness to an upset stomach. Also, such drugs may reduce the potency of specific birth control pills. For this reason, women undergoing treatment must have a back-up treatment option. Topical acne products may cause irritation and dryness. However, such effects are short-lived as the body adapts to the medication. It is essential to communicate any noticeable change to a doctor. Birth control pills may have side effects that affect the blood, including the risk of high blood pressure and blood clots. Hence, users should use such oral contraceptives with caution.
Oral isotretinoin is not left out as it is fraught with severe adverse effects that may affect pregnancy. There have been cases of babies born with acute birth defects resulting from the usage of this medication during pregnancy. It may also affect the liver, cholesterol levels, increase the risk of depression, and foster suicidal thoughts.
Bottom Line
Having acne does not signify the end of the world as it is treatable. Most importantly, individuals must develop healthy lifestyles that prevent dermal conditions like this from occurring. And when it does, find the ideal treatment option to combat it. Consult a doctor when not clear on specific medication prescriptions or terms.