Revive Medical Center works tirelessly to provide wellness services to our patients, including those with skin problems. Whether you’re a teen fighting acne or someone looking for the fountain of youth, we can help. Over the years, acne treatments have come and gone, and we are now at a place where there are three tried-and-true methods of treating facial, chest, and back acne. These medicines have stood the test of time – decades, in fact – and they clear skin better than anything else.
Benzoyl Peroxide/Salicylic Acid
We put these two together in the subheading because when you combine them you have a powerful anti-acne treatment that clears skin quickly. You can purchase these products over the counter, which is nice for those who don’t want to get a prescription. Salicylic acid is the most common ingredient in acne-fighting astringents, body washes, facial cleansers, and – for the record – anti-aging creams and lotions. Benzoyl peroxide dries up dead skin cells, which can clog pores and cause acne, and also kills the bacteria that causes acne and fights sebum, the oily buildup on your skin. Salicylic acid sloughs dead skin cells, which helps prevent blackheads and whiteheads. Dead skin cells also dull the complexion and make it look older, which is why it is used for anti-aging treatments, too.
Retinoids
Another product to treat acne that can also be used in the fight against wrinkles is retinoids. Acne is inflammation, so to treat it, you must treat the inflammation. Retinoids – retinol being the most popular – is derived from high concentrations of vitamin A. Many acne sufferers turn to retinoids if benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid don’t resolve their skin concerns. Retinoids work by unclogging oil ducts to prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming. They also prevent acne cysts and nodules. For acne sufferers, retinoids are available only by prescription. The retinol found in anti-aging creams will not help with acne. Common retinoids prescribed by skin specialists include Differin and Retin-A. Wear sunscreen when you use retinoids because they increase your sensitivity to the sun exponentially.
Antibiotics
Finally, if the two treatments above appear to be ineffective, a dermatologist will add antibiotics to the acne sufferer’s treatment regimen. The antibiotics may be oral or topical, and they are quite effective in treating existing acne and preventing additional breakouts. P. acnes is the bacteria that causes acne, and it can be treated with antibiotics just as any other bacteria can be treated. Antibiotic treatment should be monitored and a short-term solution only, as the body will eventually build up a resistance to the medication. Still, for severe cases, this treatment option works wonders.
Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, GA, would be happy to discuss your acne or aging concerns. Contact us to set up an appointment.
