What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of lesions on the skin. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, resulting in inflammation and the appearance of blemishes. Acne most commonly affects areas of the skin with a high density of oil glands, such as the face, chest, and back. It is often associated with hormonal changes during puberty, but it can affect people of all ages. While acne is not a serious medical condition, it can cause physical discomfort and affect one’s self-esteem. Treatment options for acne include topical creams, oral medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, procedures performed by dermatologists.

What acne treatments are available?

Several treatments are available for acne including Blue Light Therapy that exposes acne to wavelengths that eliminate the acne bacteria; PhotoDynamic Therapy, a photosensitizing agent that is applied to minimize pores and oil glands; and Laser Treatment pulsed light to trigger the body’s natural acne-fighting bacteria. There are also medicinal treatments available, including many topical skin creams.

Accutane

Accutane is a form of vitamin A. It reduces the amount of oil released by oil glands in your skin, and helps your skin renew itself more quickly.

Accutane is used to treat severe nodular acne. It is usually given after other acne medicines or antibiotics have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

Retinol Creams

Retinal is a vitamin A derivative that unclogs pores, boosts collagen to reduces fine lines, and speeds cell turnover to even out discoloration and smooth the skin—sometimes in as little as four weeks. The first retinoid—tretinoin—was FDA approved almost 40 years ago as a prescription acne treatment. Patients on retinol creams experience not just clearer but softer, brighter, less-lined skin.