Acne Treatments
Acne Treatment at SOMA Skin & Laser. Treatment of your acne at SOMA Skin & Laser begins with an evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. There are a number of treatment approaches that are employed depending on acne severity and other factors. Common treatments for acne include:
Topical agents for acne. The first-line of acne therapy is usually topical treatments, especially topical antibiotics and topical retinoids. There are numerous brand names, but the common agents are: benzoyl peroxide, retinoids (e.g. tretinoin (e.g. Retin-a), adapalene (e.g. Differin), and tazarotene (e.g. Tazorac)), and clindamycin. There are combination products, such as Veltin, Epiduo, and Ziana that combine a retinoid with an antibiotic or benzoyl peroxide, as well as products such as Duac that combine an antibiotic and benzoyl peroxide. These combination acne products make compliance easier.
Systemic antibiotics for acne. Systemic antibiotics are often added to the regimen for more resistant acne. Doxycyclines are usually the first line agents employed, though erythromycin and Bactrim may have roles as well.
Systemic retinoids for acne. Oral isotretinoin is used for patients with severe acne that does not respond to other measures. Side effect include chapped lips and dry skin, but more serious systemic side-effects may occur, such as elevation in liver enzymes and abnormalities of lipid metabolism. Most significantly, isotretinoin is teratogenic (causes birth defects) and cannot be used in pregnant women or in women that might become pregnant. Birth control measures and rigorous monitoring are necessary to ensure compliance. Patients must be registered in a special monitoring program, administered by the drug's manufacturer. The risks and benefits must be discussed fully with an experienced physician.
Oral contraceptive pills (OCP) and anti-androgens for acne. OCPs and antiandrogens are beneficial in some patients with acne, particularly those with hormonal or peri-menstrual flares.
Acne surgery and intralesional injections. Extracting resistant comedones (whiteheads and blackheads) and injecting cysts and stubborn lesions with dilute steroid is an important part of acne treatment provided by your dermatologist.
Lasers and light for acne. Certain lasers and light sources have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of acne, sometimes in combination with a photosensitizer, such as Levulan. Lasers can also reduce the appearance of acne scarring.
Chemical peels for acne. Chemical peels are often helpful for treating both acne as well as the hyperpigmentation and scarring that can sometimes result from acne lesions. Salicylic acid and glycolic acid peels are commonly used.
At SOMA Skin & Laser, your dermatologist will work to devise an acne treatment plan that is right for you.
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