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$Title{What Can Be Done About Acne?}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can Be Done About Acne?


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QUESTION:  My daughter has a bad case of acne, causing her to be shy and very
embarrassed.  I want to help her, but don't know if I am telling her the right
things to do.  What can I do about her acne?  I'm tired of the embarrassment
it causes me.

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ANSWER:  Acne, whether severe, moderate, or mild, can have terrible
psychological repercussions.  There's nothing quite so awful as having an
outbreak before an important interview or social engagement.  Also, acne
scarring can last a lifetime and is difficult to treat.  So do something
positive about treating her acne; begin by taking her to your doctor.
     If her acne is mild (papules or lumps that have not become pustules),
with no inflammatory pimples or redness, the physician may start management
with a topical agent usually containing benzoyl peroxide.  If her acne is
accompanied by blackheads or whiteheads, the doctor will probably choose a
different ointment containing tretinoin or retinoic acid.  When the acne is
moderate with pustules, pimples, and redness, treatment might start with a
benzoyl peroxide agent plus a topical antibiotic preparation.  In severe acne
with pustules, pimples, cysts, and constant inflammation, a course of therapy
with oral isotretinoin is often indicated, providing there is no possibility
of pregnancy during the period of treatment.  Of course there are many
variations in acne therapy, each individualized to the patient's unique
circumstances and needs.
     Some general rules of thumb apply to all acne therapy.  Early treatment
is essential to stop the formation of additional pimples.  Acne is a disease
of the sebaceous (oil) glands, which become clogged.  So washing the skin
carefully but gently at least twice a day with a mild soap and water is
important.  But acne is not caused by dirt, so special abrasive cleaners are
not necessary and only seem to irritate the problem.  More complicated
factors, such as bacteria, hormones, and heredity, contribute to acne.  When
applying prescribed medication, the entire area should be covered, not merely
the pimple.  Remember medication is best absorbed on slightly moistened skin.
There is no evidence that food can cause acne, but some people feel that
certain foods make the condition worse.  So if your daughter is aware of such
foods, it is prudent to eliminate them from the diet.  If she wears makeup,
help her choose a water-base type that is easy to remove with soap and water
and won't clog your pores.  And be sure she doesn't stop any prescribed
medication without doctor's permission.  Your continued support and interest
will help her overcome her shyness, and overcome emotional problems.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.