When Over-the-Counter Acne Medications Don't seem to be Working
Most folks suffering from an acne condition attempt to treat their condition without first seeing a doctor. However when you first notice any unusual condition of your skin it always makes sense to check with a dermatologist. Even if it is mild acne, your doctor will provide you with information and advice on acne treatments.
If your acne condition is not too serious it might be treated with acne over-the-counter medications. However if you are suffering from a severe case of acne your dermatologist may suggest prescription acne medicine. Even if your acne is not too severe but simply a moderate case, prescription acne medicine might be more effective than over-the-counter acne medication.
Two types of acne prescription acne medications are available. These are topical and oral. Oral prescription acne medications might include antibiotics. Antibiotics can also be found as a lotion. Some ingredients that may be included in topical acne prescription medications are zinc or retinoids.
Of the antibiotics, tetracycline is the most common antibiotic used for treating acne. Tetracycline kills the bacteria that is responsible for causing acne and it helps reduce inflammation as well. Treatments with antibiotics, although effective, may take a number of weeks or perhaps months to be effective.
Antibiotics should continue to be used for a time even after your acne has cleared up. One of the most common side effects associated with tetracycline is a heightened sensitivity to sunlight. This increased sensitivity may result in increased susceptibility to sunburns. Some of the other side effects associated with tetracycline are dizziness, upset stomach, and hives.
For some women, an increase in vaginal yeast may be experienced while taking tetracycline. Another side effect for pregnant women and children under the age of 12 is tooth discoloration. Therefore in these cases your doctor may not prescribe it.
Acne Ointments-most folks experience fewer complications with antibiotic ointments as opposed to oral antibiotics. These antibiotic acne ointments are also effective in killing acne causing bacteria. When these ointments are used with some over-the-counter topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, it is found that the bacteria may be prevented from developing antibiotic resistance.
Retinoids-retinoids are derived from vitamin A. Retinoids are found in the form of acne lotions or acne cream and are applied to the skin directly. These topical retinoid acne medications are effective for treating acne whiteheads as well as acne blackheads by helping to open up pores that are clogged. One of the most common side effects of these topical retinoids may be dry skin.
Oral retinoids may be prescribed for the more severe cases of acne which refuse to respond to other types of treatment. These oral retinoids help to make your upper layer of skin peel. This action opens your pores. Oral retinoids will also keep your body from producing excess sebum. As we learned before, sebum he is the substance which causes oily skin.
Some serious side effects have been found to be associated with these oral retinoids. Oral retinoids have been known to cause birth defects. Sometimes a doctor may require a women of child bearing age to take two forms of birth control if being treated with oral retinoids. They have also been found to cause depression and liver damage, therefore regular medical attention is required to insure that you are not being adversely affected by your oral retinoid treatment.
Other medications-it has been found that birth control pills sometimes are effective in treating women with acne. research has shown that they change one's hormone levels and might effectively reduce the effects that testosterone plays in causing acne. Recently it has been discovered that zinc may be an effective acne treatment in some cases. As always make sure you discuss various treatments with your dermatologist to come up with the most effective acne treatment and strategy for you or particular case.
By: ashu