Introduction
Do you feel like your skin looks tired and lackluster? Do you struggle to achieve a healthy, glowing complexion? If so, you might be experiencing dull skin, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, stress, pollution, and lifestyle choices. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat dull skin and restore its natural radiance.
Topical medications
The following are the most often prescribed topical medications for acne:
For mild acne, medications containing retinoic acids or tretinoin are often effective. These may be found in a variety of forms, including creams, gels, and lotions. Adapalene (Differin) and tazarotene are examples of tretinoin (Avita, Retin-A, and others), tazarotene (Tazorac, Avage, others). After three weeks of using it three times a week, you may go back to using it every day after your skin becomes adapted to it. It prevents hair follicles from becoming clogged. Do not use tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide at the same time.
Topical retinoids increase the sensitivity of your skin to the sun. Aside from that, they might create itchy or flaky skin, particularly in persons with darker complexions. Adapalene seems to be a well-tolerated medication.
Excess skin germs are killed, and inflammation and redness are reduced as a result. Use an antibiotic in the morning and an anti-retinol in the evening for a few months until your body adjusts to both. The use of antibiotics in combination with benzoyl peroxide helps prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance among bacteria and other pathogens. Benzoyl peroxide (Benzaclin, Duac, etc.) and erythromycin (with benzoyl peroxide) are two examples (Benzamycin). The use of just topical antibiotics is not advised.
Yeast produces azelaic acid, a naturally occurring acid. It’s antimicrobial, therefore it’s good for you. When used twice daily, azelaic acid cream or gel with 20 percent azelaic acid seems to be as effective as many conventional acne treatments. When you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may take prescription azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea) to help with your symptoms. It may also be used to reduce acne-related discoloration. Skin redness and inflammation are possible side effects.
Salicylic acid, which is available in both wash-off and leave-on forms, may help prevent clogged hair follicles. There aren’t many studies to back up the success of this strategy. Skin discoloration and itching are possible side effects.
Oral medications
For acne, there are a variety of oral medicines available.
Oral antibiotics may be required to treat moderate to severe acne if germs are present. When it comes to treating acne, tetracyclines (such as minocycline and doxycycline) or macrolides are usually the first options considered (erythromycin, azithromycin). In the case of expectant mothers and children under the age of 8, who cannot take tetracyclines, a macrolide may be a choice.
The use of oral antibiotics should be limited to periods that will not lead to the development of resistance. Benzoyl peroxide should be used in conjunction with antibiotics to minimize the development of antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotics seldom have serious negative effects when used to treat acne. These medications do raise your skin’s sensitivity to the sun’s rays.
Topical retinoids increase the sensitivity of your skin to the sun. Aside from that, they might create itchy or flaky skin, particularly in persons with darker complexions. Adapalene seems to be a well-tolerated medication.
The FDA has authorized four oral contraceptive combinations for women who also want to use them for contraception but have acne. These are progestin-estrogen combination products (Ortho Tri-Cyclen 21, Yaz, others). Because you won’t notice results from this therapy for many months, combining it with other acne drugs during the first few weeks is a good idea.
Weight gain, breast discomfort, and nausea are all common adverse effects of combination oral contraceptives. Cardiovascular disease, breast, and cervical cancers are all risks connected with these medicines.
Vitamin A derivative isotretinoin (Amnesteem, Claravis, and other brands) is used to treat acne. People with moderate to severe acne who have not responded to prior therapies may be administered this medication.
Inflammatory bowel illness, depression, and serious birth abnormalities are all possible adverse effects of oral isotretinoin. The FDA must authorize a risk management program for all persons taking isotretinoin. A visit to the doctor frequently will be required for monitoring of adverse effects.
Consult a Specialist Today
Many of the techniques for preventing pimples may also be used to cure them. Eating well, avoiding stress, and not popping pimples may help manage zits and reduce their length. If your acne continues despite your best efforts, you may need prescription acne treatment. Consult your dermatologist if you’re uncertain about treatment.
Acne - Pimple Treatment FAQ
The early symptoms of Acne can be small tender bumps on the skin, which are often filled with pus. You can even develop a combination of these breakouts on your skin. Some of the most common and early symptoms of Acne are as follows
- Blackheads – It is yellowish and has small black bumps on the skin. These look black due to the presence of pigmentation produced because of the inner lining of the hair follicle. The dermatologist highly recommends treating these with retinoid instead of squeezing it out because it can leave a permanent scar
- Whiteheads are similar to blackheads in terms of appearance but firmer, and they can’t be completely squeezed out. It can be cured with the help of acne treatment, as plucking them up can be painful and infectious.
- Pimple – The dead skin cells and bacteria get trapped inside a pore and cause pimples if these are mild, then they can be treated with acne products that contain a retinoid, azelaic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
- Acne nodule or cyst – Acne nodules are larger acne bumps that build up under the skin, which can be very painful. Cyst looks like boils and carries the highest risks of causing permanent scars. In some cases, dermatologists prefer to inject it with medication which helps them to clear it more quickly.
The common risk factors for Acne are as follows
- Age – Acne is very common in teenagers; however, it can occur to anyone at any stage of life, and people of all ages can get it.
- Changes in Hormonal balance – Androgen hormones increase in girls and boys during puberty and expand the sebaceous glands while making it more sebum. These hormonal changes can lead to breakouts, particularly in women in their midlife, which allows Acne to stay for longer than usual
- Medical History – If any of your parents or both parent has Acne, there is a higher chance for you to develop it too as genetics plays a very important role in Acne
- Uses of oily and greasy products – If you are using any oily lotions or creams on your skin, then you might develop Acne
- Friction on your skin – If your acne-prone skin is continuously in contact with cell phones, telephone, backpacks, helmets, and tight collars, then it can create friction, and then you might develop Acne
If you have mild Acne, you can speak to the pharmacy and easily get medical to cure it which is a smart move to stop the outspread of Acne, but dermatologist believes that two pimples can be alike and the dermatologist can guide you and advise you regarding the treatment options for different types of Acne. Here are the three questions which are the best indicators that you need to see a doctor for Acne
- Are the gels, creams, and cleansers you have been using have stopped working?
- Is Acne reducing your confidence, or is it taking a toll on your self-esteem?
- Are the pimples painful and leaving dark spots and scars behind?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, then you need to consult a dermatologist immediately.
The cost of acne treatment can vary depending on several factors. If you decide to get rid of acne on your own, your only cost will be the supplies and time of research. If you go with a professional like a dermatologist, your cost can range from 2000 to 15,000 INR, depending on the type and size of acne. The best dermatologist for acne treatment PCMC, Pune is Dr. Kiran Chotaliya.
It’s crucial to understand that although benefits might appear as early as the first week, it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to notice any major change. The therapy should be continued for at least another 6 weeks before deciding it isn’t working for you. First, you should see a reduction in the size of the pimples.
Acne is a disfiguring skin disease that may cause embarrassment and self-esteem issues. A laser and heat are used in laser acne treatment to get rid of the zits on your face. Results may be seen as soon as 12 hours following your treatment, however, they are just temporary. Your effects will last as long as your skin type, treatment region, and acne kind.
Acne treatment side effects are dependent on the technique used and the dosage used. The most frequent negative effects of topical acne medications are dryness and irritation of the skin. Fortunately, these signs and symptoms are only going to last for a short time.
Acne severity cannot be classified universally, which means every skincare professional classifies Acne in a different way. Majority of the dermatologist uses grades to indicate the severity of Acne, and it goes like this – mild Acne, moderate Acne, and severe Acne. However, there is a proper test to identify the severity of Acne, and dermatologists do it by doing a simple inspection of Acne visually. The Acne tends to wax and wane on its own, so the grades can also move back accordingly. Let’s understand the severity of Acne in details
- Mild AcneÂ
The minor Acne which is less in quantity is known as mild Acne. If there are some bumpiness and blackheads or inflamed pimples on your skin and the blemishes are not widespread, you are under the mildest grade. You can easily treat this type of Acne with general acne treatment products which are available in your country. Make sure to treat this Acne as soon as possible as there are chances that it might convert into a more severe form
- Moderate Acne
This Acne is more visible as compared to mild Acne, you might even have blackheads and bumpy skin, and you can also get regular inflamed papules and pustules. In such cases, if you are scuffling to get this Acne under control with the help of the country’s acne treatment products, you need to stop as these products are clearly not working. You are required to consult an authorized physician and get a prescription medication to clear these moderate breakouts.
- Severe AcneÂ
In severe Acne, the blemishes are larger, redder, and more swollen. You need to consult a dermatologist for that as it is quite difficult to control severe Acne, and prescribed medicines are required to do so.
There are different types of Acne that require different types of treatment, and it is very important to know your type so that you can get the suitable treatment according to it. Here is the list of most common acne types-
- Acne Vulgaris
- Comedonal Acne
- Cystic Acne
- Nodular Acne
- Acne Rosacea
- Acne Mechanica
- Acne Cosmetica
To avoid breakouts and get rid of acne, you may practice certain self-care techniques at home. Acne home treatments include the following:
- Using a gentle soap on your skin every day to eliminate excess oil and grime is recommended.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Maintaining a regular shampooing routine and keeping your hair out of your eyes and away from your face.
- Using water-based or non-comedogenic make-up (not pore-clogging)
- Don’t squeeze or pick at pimples since that’ll spread germs and extra oil over your body.
There are certain things that may worsen or create complications of Acne. The condition can get worse if it damages the nearby skin. People who have darker skin tones are likely to face these complications more as compared to the people who have lighter skin tones
- Scars
Thick scars and pitted skin can prone to stay longer than usual even after the Acne has healed
- Skin changes
Once the Acne is gone, the affected area may patch of skin become darker in color, which is called hyperpigmentation, or it can become lighter, which is called hypopigmented then before the occurred condition
The fact about Acne is that the majority of people think that they knew everything about Acne in their teenage years and some people also think that they are aware of adult acne, which is probably a myth. Here is the list of the most common acne myths around the world.
- Only teenagers get Acne
It is not true at all, based on the survey, it has been found that a remarkable number of adults are still having acne issues in their 30s, 40s, and 50s as well. The appearance of Acne may differ in different age groups, but the redness, blackheads, whiteheads scattering all over your cheeks, forehead, and nose are the same.
- Soda and chocolates cause Acne
According to world-renowned dermatologists, the concept of caffeine and chocolate can cause Acne has never panned out. Some researchers have also suggested that milk products can cause acne due to the presence of bacteria in the milk, but there is no solid evidence.
- Stress
It is hard to justify this statement that stress can cause Acne. Acne is common in students, and they face more breakouts in their final examinations. Stress may play a part in causing Acne, but there is no solid proof that stress can cause or make acne worse.
- Wash your face frequently
It can be the most common myth, which is not true. Washing your face twice a day can be effective and beneficial, but more than that can dry out your skin, creating other skin problems.
Acne has a bad reputation due to widespread misunderstandings. What causes acne? You’ve probably heard a lot of theories, but how can you know whether they’re true? Let’s dispel the most common misconceptions about acne.
- The sun and tanning beds clear up acne
It may seem like the sun is drying out your skin, but this is not the case. As a result of the sun’s drying and inflaming effects, your skin produces extra oil, making the problem even worse.
- Dirty skin causes acne
Uncleanliness does not cause acne. Bacteria and surface oil may be removed from the skin by washing your face twice a day.
- Greasy food causes acne
Acne is unaffected by junk food like chocolate, French fries, and other processed carbohydrates. You may eat anything you want since there is no scientific proof that such foods cause acne.
A dermatologist (a specialist who specializes in the skin) may assist. Perhaps they can recommend a cream, lotion, gel, or soap that has components that might be helpful. Many of these medications are available over-the-counter without a doctor’s prescription:
- Excess hormones are prevented by using the drug Aldactone (Spironolactone)
- It eliminates germs and removes excess oil when used in conjunction with benzoyl peroxide.
- acne-causing hormones are blocked by the topical therapy clascoterone (Winlevi)
- To help clear blackheads and whiteheads, resorcinol is an exfoliant.
- Salicylic acid helps to keep pores clear by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
- As a byproduct of using sulfur to exfoliate the skin, it becomes clearer and clearer.
If you have mild Acne, you can speak to the pharmacy and easily get medical to cure it which is a smart move to stop the outspread of Acne, but dermatologist believes that two pimples can be alike and the dermatologist can guide you and advise you regarding the treatment options for different types of Acne. Here are the three questions which are the best indicators that you need to see a doctor for Acne
- Are the gels, creams, and cleansers you have been using have stopped working?
- Is Acne reducing your confidence, or is it taking a toll on your self-esteem?
- Are the pimples painful and leaving dark spots and scars behind?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, then you need to consult a dermatologist immediately.
Acne - Pimple Treatment FAQ
The early symptoms of Acne can be small tender bumps on the skin, which are often filled with pus. You can even develop a combination of these breakouts on your skin. Some of the most common and early symptoms of Acne are as follows
- Blackheads – It is yellowish and has small black bumps on the skin. These look black due to the presence of pigmentation produced because of the inner lining of the hair follicle. The dermatologist highly recommends treating these with retinoid instead of squeezing it out because it can leave a permanent scar
- Whiteheads are similar to blackheads in terms of appearance but firmer, and they can’t be completely squeezed out. It can be cured with the help of acne treatment, as plucking them up can be painful and infectious.
- Pimple – The dead skin cells and bacteria get trapped inside a pore and cause pimples if these are mild, then they can be treated with acne products that contain a retinoid, azelaic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
- Acne nodule or cyst – Acne nodules are larger acne bumps that build up under the skin, which can be very painful. Cyst looks like boils and carries the highest risks of causing permanent scars. In some cases, dermatologists prefer to inject it with medication which helps them to clear it more quickly.
The common risk factors for Acne are as follows
- Age – Acne is very common in teenagers; however, it can occur to anyone at any stage of life, and people of all ages can get it.
- Changes in Hormonal balance – Androgen hormones increase in girls and boys during puberty and expand the sebaceous glands while making it more sebum. These hormonal changes can lead to breakouts, particularly in women in their midlife, which allows Acne to stay for longer than usual
- Medical History – If any of your parents or both parent has Acne, there is a higher chance for you to develop it too as genetics plays a very important role in Acne
- Uses of oily and greasy products – If you are using any oily lotions or creams on your skin, then you might develop Acne
- Friction on your skin – If your acne-prone skin is continuously in contact with cell phones, telephone, backpacks, helmets, and tight collars, then it can create friction, and then you might develop Acne
If you have mild Acne, you can speak to the pharmacy and easily get medical to cure it which is a smart move to stop the outspread of Acne, but dermatologist believes that two pimples can be alike and the dermatologist can guide you and advise you regarding the treatment options for different types of Acne. Here are the three questions which are the best indicators that you need to see a doctor for Acne
- Are the gels, creams, and cleansers you have been using have stopped working?
- Is Acne reducing your confidence, or is it taking a toll on your self-esteem?
- Are the pimples painful and leaving dark spots and scars behind?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, then you need to consult a dermatologist immediately.
The cost of acne treatment can vary depending on several factors. If you decide to get rid of acne on your own, your only cost will be the supplies and time of research. If you go with a professional like a dermatologist, your cost can range from 2000 to 15,000 INR, depending on the type and size of acne. The best dermatologist for acne treatment PCMC, Pune is Dr. Kiran Chotaliya.
It’s crucial to understand that although benefits might appear as early as the first week, it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to notice any major change. The therapy should be continued for at least another 6 weeks before deciding it isn’t working for you. First, you should see a reduction in the size of the pimples.
Acne is a disfiguring skin disease that may cause embarrassment and self-esteem issues. A laser and heat are used in laser acne treatment to get rid of the zits on your face. Results may be seen as soon as 12 hours following your treatment, however, they are just temporary. Your effects will last as long as your skin type, treatment region, and acne kind.
Acne treatment side effects are dependent on the technique used and the dosage used. The most frequent negative effects of topical acne medications are dryness and irritation of the skin. Fortunately, these signs and symptoms are only going to last for a short time.
Acne severity cannot be classified universally, which means every skincare professional classifies Acne in a different way. Majority of the dermatologist uses grades to indicate the severity of Acne, and it goes like this – mild Acne, moderate Acne, and severe Acne. However, there is a proper test to identify the severity of Acne, and dermatologists do it by doing a simple inspection of Acne visually. The Acne tends to wax and wane on its own, so the grades can also move back accordingly. Let’s understand the severity of Acne in details
- Mild AcneÂ
The minor Acne which is less in quantity is known as mild Acne. If there are some bumpiness and blackheads or inflamed pimples on your skin and the blemishes are not widespread, you are under the mildest grade. You can easily treat this type of Acne with general acne treatment products which are available in your country. Make sure to treat this Acne as soon as possible as there are chances that it might convert into a more severe form
- Moderate Acne
This Acne is more visible as compared to mild Acne, you might even have blackheads and bumpy skin, and you can also get regular inflamed papules and pustules. In such cases, if you are scuffling to get this Acne under control with the help of the country’s acne treatment products, you need to stop as these products are clearly not working. You are required to consult an authorized physician and get a prescription medication to clear these moderate breakouts.
- Severe AcneÂ
In severe Acne, the blemishes are larger, redder, and more swollen. You need to consult a dermatologist for that as it is quite difficult to control severe Acne, and prescribed medicines are required to do so.
There are different types of Acne that require different types of treatment, and it is very important to know your type so that you can get the suitable treatment according to it. Here is the list of most common acne types-
- Acne Vulgaris
- Comedonal Acne
- Cystic Acne
- Nodular Acne
- Acne Rosacea
- Acne Mechanica
- Acne Cosmetica
To avoid breakouts and get rid of acne, you may practice certain self-care techniques at home. Acne home treatments include the following:
- Using a gentle soap on your skin every day to eliminate excess oil and grime is recommended.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Maintaining a regular shampooing routine and keeping your hair out of your eyes and away from your face.
- Using water-based or non-comedogenic make-up (not pore-clogging)
- Don’t squeeze or pick at pimples since that’ll spread germs and extra oil over your body.
There are certain things that may worsen or create complications of Acne. The condition can get worse if it damages the nearby skin. People who have darker skin tones are likely to face these complications more as compared to the people who have lighter skin tones
- Scars
Thick scars and pitted skin can prone to stay longer than usual even after the Acne has healed
- Skin changes
Once the Acne is gone, the affected area may patch of skin become darker in color, which is called hyperpigmentation, or it can become lighter, which is called hypopigmented then before the occurred condition
The fact about Acne is that the majority of people think that they knew everything about Acne in their teenage years and some people also think that they are aware of adult acne, which is probably a myth. Here is the list of the most common acne myths around the world.
- Only teenagers get Acne
It is not true at all, based on the survey, it has been found that a remarkable number of adults are still having acne issues in their 30s, 40s, and 50s as well. The appearance of Acne may differ in different age groups, but the redness, blackheads, whiteheads scattering all over your cheeks, forehead, and nose are the same.
- Soda and chocolates cause Acne
According to world-renowned dermatologists, the concept of caffeine and chocolate can cause Acne has never panned out. Some researchers have also suggested that milk products can cause acne due to the presence of bacteria in the milk, but there is no solid evidence.
- Stress
It is hard to justify this statement that stress can cause Acne. Acne is common in students, and they face more breakouts in their final examinations. Stress may play a part in causing Acne, but there is no solid proof that stress can cause or make acne worse.
- Wash your face frequently
It can be the most common myth, which is not true. Washing your face twice a day can be effective and beneficial, but more than that can dry out your skin, creating other skin problems.
Acne has a bad reputation due to widespread misunderstandings. What causes acne? You’ve probably heard a lot of theories, but how can you know whether they’re true? Let’s dispel the most common misconceptions about acne.
- The sun and tanning beds clear up acne
It may seem like the sun is drying out your skin, but this is not the case. As a result of the sun’s drying and inflaming effects, your skin produces extra oil, making the problem even worse.
- Dirty skin causes acne
Uncleanliness does not cause acne. Bacteria and surface oil may be removed from the skin by washing your face twice a day.
- Greasy food causes acne
Acne is unaffected by junk food like chocolate, French fries, and other processed carbohydrates. You may eat anything you want since there is no scientific proof that such foods cause acne.
A dermatologist (a specialist who specializes in the skin) may assist. Perhaps they can recommend a cream, lotion, gel, or soap that has components that might be helpful. Many of these medications are available over-the-counter without a doctor’s prescription:
- Excess hormones are prevented by using the drug Aldactone (Spironolactone)
- It eliminates germs and removes excess oil when used in conjunction with benzoyl peroxide.
- acne-causing hormones are blocked by the topical therapy clascoterone (Winlevi)
- To help clear blackheads and whiteheads, resorcinol is an exfoliant.
- Salicylic acid helps to keep pores clear by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
- As a byproduct of using sulfur to exfoliate the skin, it becomes clearer and clearer.
If you have mild Acne, you can speak to the pharmacy and easily get medical to cure it which is a smart move to stop the outspread of Acne, but dermatologist believes that two pimples can be alike and the dermatologist can guide you and advise you regarding the treatment options for different types of Acne. Here are the three questions which are the best indicators that you need to see a doctor for Acne
- Are the gels, creams, and cleansers you have been using have stopped working?
- Is Acne reducing your confidence, or is it taking a toll on your self-esteem?
- Are the pimples painful and leaving dark spots and scars behind?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, then you need to consult a dermatologist immediately.