Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee, My 15 year old has serious acne over much of his face and some on his back. He's tried several over-the-counter products, but the pimples are still there, or maybe they would be much worse without the products? I'm hoping he'll grow out of this pimple phase soon. When might that be? Signed, Concerned Mom Dear Concerned Mom, Most teenagers get some acne, but often adults can too, anywhere up to age 50. Your son's acne may clear in a few years, but if the acne is serious then it's best to see a dermatologist. If treatment isn't started now, then your son may develop permanent scars from the acne. The two main types of treatments are topical and oral. A topical gel that works well is Differin, but your dermatologist may recommend other topicals. The American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org, lists these topical and oral acne treatments: TOPICALS 1. Prescription topical creams, gels, or lotions with vitamin A acid-like drugs, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics to help unblock the pores and reduce bacteria. These products may cause some drying and peeling. Your dermatologist will advise you about correct usage and how to handle side effects. 2. Acne surgery may be used by your dermatologist to remove blackheads and whiteheads. Do not pick, scratch, pop, or squeeze pimples yourself. When the pimples are squeezed, more redness, swelling, inflammation, and scarring may result. 3. Microdermabrasion may be used to remove the upper layers of the skin improving irregularities in the surface, contour, and generating new skin. 4. Light chemical peels with salicylic acid or glycolic acid help to unblock the pores, open the blackheads and whiteheads, and stimulate new skin growth. 5. Injections of corticosteroids may be used for treating large red bumps (nodules). This may help them go away quickly. ORAL 1. Antibiotics taken by mouth such as tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, or erythromycin are often prescribed. 2. Birth control pills may significantly improve acne, and may be used specifically for the treatment of acne. It is also important to know that oral antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. This is uncommon, but possible, especially if you notice break-through bleeding. As a precautionary measure use a second form of birth OTHER TREATMENTS 1. In cases of unresponsive or severe acne, isotretinoin may be used. Patients using isotretinoin must understand the side effects of this drug. Monitoring with frequent follow-up visits is necessary. Pregnancy must be prevented while taking the medication, since the drug causes birth defects. 2. Women may also use female hormones or medications that decrease the effects of male hormones to help their acne. 3. Photodynamic therapy using the blue wavelength of light can be helpful in treating acne as well. To learn more about acne and acne treatments go to www.aad.org. |
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| Skin Care for Pimples and Oily Complexion |