4 Acne Treatments Your Dermatologist May Recommend and How to Prevent Future Breakouts
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions teenagers and adults face and can hurt a person's self-esteem. If you have tried over-the-counter acne treatments without success, you probably feel very frustrated. Your next step is to visit a dermatologist.
Here are a few acne treatments your dermatologist may recommend.
Retinoids
If your acne is not too severe, your dermatologist may advise you to use retinoids first. These medications are available in lotions, creams, and gels and work by helping you get rid of pore-clogging skin cells more efficiently. Before you use retinoids, you should understand that they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. As such, do not forget to apply sunscreen before you step outside.
Antibiotics
If your acne is on the severe side, your dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics. These drugs are designed to decrease the bacteria that may be causing your acne. Your dermatologist will not want you to use antibiotics for long periods of time because you may eventually become resistant to them.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels do not just treat wrinkles and discoloration. They may also be beneficial for mild acne. During the treatment, a dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to your skin, which removes damaged skin cells. You may need several peels to notice results.
Oral Contraceptives
Birth control pills have many other uses besides preventing pregnancies, including treating acne. The hormones in these pills reduce androgens, which decreases sebum. As a result, your skin will produce less oil and be less susceptible to acne.
How to Prevent Acne in the Future
Once you treat your acne, you will want to avoid getting it again in the future. Here are some different ways to prevent future acne breakouts.
- Wash Your Face After Rigorous Activities: After you get done with a heavy workout or other strenuous activity, do not forget to wash your face. Otherwise, the sweat can clog your pores and increase your risk of breakouts.
- Be Careful About the Products You Use: Before you apply makeup, sunscreen, or others products to your skin, make sure they are noncomedogenic.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Touching your face throughout the day can become a habit. However, if you do it too frequently, you could transfer bacteria to your skin and increase breakouts.
If you are dealing with acne, you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
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