Spring has arrived. Each spring I see an increased number of teens with acne. Acne is a multi-factor disease process and can be chronic in nature. If you have been suffering from acne and not seen improvement with over the counter products, it might be time to make an appointment. Let’s come up with a treatment plan and reduce the likelihood of scarring. It is best to start treatment well before a major event like a wedding or prom.
PLAN AHEAD
Acne can flare in the first two weeks of treatment. Also, it often takes up to 12-weeks to see a 60% improvement. Most acne plans will include a cleanser, a topical leave on, and if the acne is moderate-to-severe or associated with scarring, a possible oral antibiotic. There are some cosmetic procedures and products that can improve acne. Chemical peels can address acne, some scarring and related pigmentation changes. Fraxel laser can also improve skin that has been scarred by acne. Cosmetic products that can improve acne are retinoids, salicylic and glycolic acid washes, and leave on benzyl peroxide products. Even if you are oily, a moisturizer is recommended. Look for products that are labeled non-comedogenic.
Acne is not only for teenagers. Women can also suffer from hormonal acne made worse by conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. In this case, your dermatology provider may discuss treatment options like oral contraceptive pills or Spironolactone.
ACNE IS INFLAMMATION
Remember at the heart of acne is inflammation and so it is important not to pick, squeeze active acne, or to aggressively buff with brushes or scrubs. These things can and will increase inflammation. I advise you to stay away from those magnifying mirrors. They can often lead to picking clogged pores which can make conditions worse.
SPOT TREATMENTS
Almost everyone suffers from the occasional acne bump and I do recommend over the counter spot treatments with a 2% salicylic acid or 10% benzoyl peroxide. Adults beware of spots that look like acne but do not go away in a few days. Non-healing acne can be something else and you should make an appointment to have the spot evaluated.
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
On another note, if you are one of Summit’s current acne patients, and are on any of the following medications: Onexton, Retin-A micro 0.8%, 0.4%, Acanya, or any other products made by Ortho Dermatologics (formerly Valeant Dermatology), you may be eligible for the Aspire college scholarship offered by Ortho Dermatologics. They are giving 9 students $10,000 towards higher education. You can obtain more information at their website.
As always, I hope to see you around the office.
Margene Tranter, PA-C Dermatology
Spring has arrived. Each spring I see an increased number of teens with acne. Acne is a multi-factor disease process and can be chronic in nature. If you have been suffering from acne and not seen improvement with over the counter products, it might be time to make an appointment. Let’s come up with a treatment plan and reduce the likelihood of scarring. It is best to start treatment well before a major event like a wedding or prom.
PLAN AHEAD
Acne can flare in the first two weeks of treatment. Also, it often takes up to 12-weeks to see a 60% improvement. Most acne plans will include a cleanser, a topical leave on, and if the acne is moderate-to-severe or associated with scarring, a possible oral antibiotic. There are some cosmetic procedures and products that can improve acne. Chemical peels can address acne, some scarring and related pigmentation changes. Fraxel laser can also improve skin that has been scarred by acne. Cosmetic products that can improve acne are retinoids, salicylic and glycolic acid washes, and leave on benzyl peroxide products. Even if you are oily, a moisturizer is recommended. Look for products that are labeled non-comedogenic.
Acne is not only for teenagers. Women can also suffer from hormonal acne made worse by conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. In this case, your dermatology provider may discuss treatment options like oral contraceptive pills or Spironolactone.
ACNE IS INFLAMMATION
Remember at the heart of acne is inflammation and so it is important not to pick, squeeze active acne, or to aggressively buff with brushes or scrubs. These things can and will increase inflammation. I advise you to stay away from those magnifying mirrors. They can often lead to picking clogged pores which can make conditions worse.
SPOT TREATMENTS
Almost everyone suffers from the occasional acne bump and I do recommend over the counter spot treatments with a 2% salicylic acid or 10% benzoyl peroxide. Adults beware of spots that look like acne but do not go away in a few days. Non-healing acne can be something else and you should make an appointment to have the spot evaluated.
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
On another note, if you are one of Summit’s current acne patients, and are on any of the following medications: Onexton, Retin-A micro 0.8%, 0.4%, Acanya, or any other products made by Ortho Dermatologics (formerly Valeant Dermatology), you may be eligible for the Aspire college scholarship offered by Ortho Dermatologics. They are giving 9 students $10,000 towards higher education. You can obtain more information at their website.
As always, I hope to see you around the office.
Margene Tranter, PA-C Dermatology
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