By Lisa Massimiano, 

Licensed Esthetician, 

Certified Acne Specialist, Owner Skin Smart Salon

Going to a dermatologist and getting prescription drugs is often the first option for many acne sufferers. Patients are usually given antibiotics and a prescription retinoid to use. When this approach fails, the dermatologist will often prescribe a different or stronger drug.

Antibiotics for Acne

While oral antibiotics may suppress inflammation, a common symptom of acne, they don’t treat the root cause of acne, hyperkeratosis, an inherited condition of excessive shedding of skin cells inside the pores. When acne sufferers stop the antibiotics, the inflamed acne often returns. So, they go back on the drug, creating a constant cycle of antibiotic use.

Retin-A

Prescription strength topical Retin-A is commonly prescribed for acne. However, this topical drug can be very drying on the skin. Since many people who struggle with chronic acne don’t have oily skin, it often makes their skin so dry and irritated that they stop using it before it can become effective.

Isotretinoin

Accutane is an oral medication often prescribed for acne. Although Accutane can work well for some people, it is not a magic treatment, and it comes with a lot of potential side effects. 

Treating Acne Without Drugs

There is no quick fix for acne. For acne sufferers seeking an alternative approach to clear skin, consider going to an Acne Specialist. A licensed skin care professional who is specifically trained to treat acne using a combination of clinical treatments, home care protocols and regular follow-up during the process of clearing acne prone skin.

Questions about acne? Email me at [email protected] or call me at 508 881-1180. Visit my website Skinsmartsalon.com for information about Skin Smart’s acne program and other services.

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