Acne Treatment at Pine Belt Dermatology - Biloxi, Mississippi
Marisa McGeorge, FNP-BC, CANS • December 9, 2019
Acne woes! Most of us have been there at some point in our lives. Some of us grow out of it, some of us deal with it into adulthood. Acne is a common skin condition that affects up to 50 million American adolescents and adults. It can present as inflammatory papules (red bumps) or comedonal papules (blackheads and whiteheads). In adolescence, acne is primarily due to hormonal changes, but can also be caused by increased oil production, inflammation, and the presence of bacteria. As for adults, unfortunately the hormonal hits keep coming with acne in women being predominately related to hormones as well. The presence of acne can be found not only on the face, but also the neck, back, chest, or arms or where oil producing glands are present. Thankfully, multiple treatments exist to manage these symptoms. Disclaimer: It is important to know that all acne products can cause dryness and sensitivity, and caution should be taken if using with sensitive skin. Furthermore, many acne medications can cause sensitivity in the sun, so sunscreen and covering with hats and clothing is recommended to prevent irritation or sunburn. Now that we have that crucial piece of information out of the way, let’s talk loving your skin again.
Treatments for both inflammatory and comedonal acne consists of cleansers, topical products applied to the face and body, and also oral medications such as antibiotics or Accutane for deeper, cystic acne. Most of these medications focus on treating acne by resurfacing the skin and reducing blackheads and whiteheads or by treating the inflammatory component of acne. First line treatments involve cleansers and medications applied to the affected areas. Common cleansers contain benzoyl peroxide, an antimicrobial, or salicylic acid, a mild resurfacing agent. Both of these types of cleansers can be found over the counter. Other products that may be found over the counter can be applied topically and left on the skin and would include topical benzoyl peroxide or Differin. Differin, a type of retinoid, derived from vitamin A, also helps to resurface the skin. In the past few years, Differin has become available from a prescription only topical product, to a lower strength over the counter topical product.
Most people seeking medical help for acne have tried over the counter acne medications which either helped and stopped working, or didn’t help to begin with. As a medical provider who treats acne, the first thing I recommend is cleansing twice a day. Think of the thousands of pores on our face akin to little potholes which fill up with dirt, oil, and bacteria over the course of the day. Washing the face twice daily is a great start to an acne regimen. Also, when treating acne, I understand that busy teenagers can have compliance issues and therefore like to keep acne regimens simple. Morning and night regimens. Wash your face in the shower in the morning or night, whichever is preferred, and then at the sink when you brush your teeth the other time of the day. Unfortunately, this regimen only works if a teenager is brushing his or her teeth twice a day. Sorry moms and dads, I can only do so much.
Prescription medications to treat acne are also available and include topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatories applied to the skin. Also, in this category is a key player called Retin A. Here’s the skinny on Retin A. Retin A (also called tretinoin) may be a cream, lotion, or gel and comes in different strengths. It can be your best friend or your worst enemy in the battle against acne. When used correctly, Retin A is a wonderful medication that resurfaces the skin and is great for treating not only inflammatory acne, but also for comedonal acne. For most, the key to tolerating Retin-A relies on how you use it. I recommend to all of my patients, a slow start method when beginning Retin A. For example, on the first week, apply a pea-sized amount at bedtime 2-3 nights only such as Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Each week, add an additional night as tolerated. Ultimately, you want to apply Retin A every night, but for some that may not be possible due to sensitivity, and that’s ok. Retin A can cause irritation and sunburn if appropriate sunscreen measures aren’t taken when outdoors.
Sometimes oral antibiotics are used in short courses to help eradicate acne bacteria and also treat inflammation associated with acne. These medications are usually in the tetracycline class and may go by the names, minocycline or doxycycline. Important take home points. Take it with food. Wear sunscreen and cover up when outdoors. You will burn. I’ve seen very bad sunburns and also blisters in patients who failed to use SPF protection when on tetracyclines.
Despite judicious use of prescription acne medications, some patients still may not have an adequate response to therapy. For those people who suffer from chronic nodulocystic acne, another medication known as Accutane may be an option. This medication is basically an oral form of Retin A. A thorough medical history must be taken prior to deciding to pursue Accutane. Treatment with Accutane also requires an average of 6 months of therapy including regular lab testing and monthly office visits with your dermatologist. I like to save Accutane as my heavy hitter when treating acne and use it when conventional methods fail. If my patient is a candidate for this specific type of treatment, it is a game changer for sure.
With adult acne, treatment regimens are similar, however an additional medication called spironolactone may be used for women suffering from what I like to affectionately call, “grown-up acne”. As women age, our hormones do wonky things and fluctuations in our hormones trigger surges of grown-up acne. Spironolactone is an oral medicine that blocks the testosterone cause of acne in women. For patients who are healthy, a simple blood test to assess kidney function and electrolytes is performed and this may be an option to reduce acne breakouts.
In conclusion, acne can be frustrating for patients and for the parents of patients. The good news is that today’s treatments are easily accessible with first-line therapy being available over the counter. For those who need a little more, I recommend talking to your dermatologist for further options in treating this common but mendable skin condition.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , we understand that selecting the right skincare products can be challenging. While many over-the-counter (OTC) options promise results, not all skin concerns can be addressed with these products. Knowing the difference between OTC and prescription treatments helps you make educated decisions and recognize when to seek professional care. If you are treating acne, eczema, rosacea, or signs of aging, upgrading your treatment plan at the right time can improve your skin health and confidence. Understanding Over-the-Counter Skin Treatments Over-the-counter skincare products are available without a prescription and are intended for mild to moderate skin concerns. When used consistently, many contain ingredients that help maintain healthy skin. Common OTC ingredients include: Salicylic acid for acne Benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne-causing bacteria Retinol for fine lines and uneven texture Hydrocortisone cream for minor itching and irritation Moisturizers with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to heal the skin barrier These products are a good starting point for mild conditions. However, because OTC treatments use lower-strength active ingredients, they may not be effective for chronic or serious skin issues. When Prescription Skin Treatments May Be Necessary Prescription treatments use stronger active ingredients and are customized to your specific skin condition. A dermatologist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend medications that address the problem more effectively than OTC products. Prescription treatments may include: Oral medications for moderate to severe acne Prescription-strength retinoids Medications to manage eczema or psoriasis Treatments for rosacea and chronic redne Prescription creams for hyperpigmentation or melasma Antifungal or antibacterial medications for skin infections These therapies are chosen based on your medical history, skin type, and treatment goals to maximize results and minimize side effects. Time to Upgrade Your Treatment While many start with OTC products, some situations require a dermatology appointment. Consider seeing a dermatologist if: Your skin condition has not improved after several weeks of steady OTC treatment. Acne is causing painful cysts, nodules, or permanent scarring. Rashes, redness, or irritation continue to worsen. You experience frequent flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. You notice new or changing skin growths or unusual spots. Your skin concern is affecting your confidence or quality of life. Early treatment has the potential to prevent conditions from getting worse and minimize the chances of long-term skin damage. Why Professional Assessment Matters Many skin conditions look similar, making self-diagnosis challenging. For example, stubborn acne may be rosacea, and chronic dry patches could indicate eczema, psoriasis, or another condition. A board-certified dermatologist can accurately diagnose your skin concern and develop a customized treatment plan. Professional guidance also helps you avoid spending time and money on ineffective products. Healthy Skin Starts with the Right Treatment Over-the-counter products are important for daily skincare, but they may not treat complex or persistent concerns. Transitioning to prescription treatment at the right time can greatly improve your skin’s appearance and long-term health. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , our team offers complete evaluations and customized treatment plans for acne, eczema, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, skin cancer screenings, and other skin conditions. If your current skincare routine is not resulting in success, we are here to help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we believe education is key to protecting and maintaining healthy skin. July is significant for skin health, featuring both UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day on July 8 . These occasions highlight the importance of sun protection and raise awareness of common concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and melasma . Understanding how ultraviolet (UV) exposure affects your skin helps prevent long-term damage and supports a healthier, more even complexion. Why UV Protection Matters The sun emits ultraviolet rays that can damage skin even on cloudy days. While many associate UV exposure with sunburn, its effects are broader. Repeated UV exposure accelerates skin aging, increases skin cancer risk, and contributes to pigmentation disorders. Common effects of excessive UV exposure include: • Sunburn and skin irritation • Premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles • Dark spots and uneven skin tone • Increased risk of skin cancer • Worsening of hyperpigmentation and melasma Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin and reduce preventable damage. What Is Hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is a common condition where areas of skin become darker than the surrounding tissue due to excess melanin production. Multiple factors can contribute to hyperpigmentation, including: • Sun exposure • Acne scars and inflammation • Hormonal changes • Skin injuries or irritation • Certain medications While hyperpigmentation is mostly harmless, many seek treatment to improve skin tone as well as restore confidence. Understanding Melasma Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that shows up as brown or gray-brown patches, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. Melasma is frequently associated with: • Hormone changes during pregnancy • Birth control medications • Hormone replacement therapy • Genetic predisposition • Sun exposure Although melasma is not dangerous, it can be difficult to treat because UV exposure frequently triggers or worsens it. Even minimal sun exposure can increase pigment production and make discoloration more noticeable. Protecting Your Skin from UV Damage Whether you are concerned about skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, or melasma, daily sun protection is essential. Dermatologists suggest: • Using sun lotion with SPF 30 or higher every day • Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors • Wearing wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing • Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours • Wearing UV-protective sunglasses • Avoiding tanning beds Consistent sun protection helps prevent new pigmentation issues. World Skin Health Day: A Reminder to Prioritize Skin Care Observed annually on July 8, World Skin Health Day encourages preventive steps to maintain healthy skin. This is a reminder to perform regular self-exams, schedule dermatology visits, and address concerns early. If you notice persistent dark spots, changes in pigmentation, or new skin lesions, seek an expert assessment to determine the cause and identify treatment options. Supporting Healthy Skin Year-Round UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day remind us that protecting your skin is an investment in long-term health. Practicing sun safety and understanding conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma help preserve your skin’s health, appearance, and function. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our team provides personalized evaluations and treatments for pigmentation concerns, sun-damaged skin, and overall skin health. Plan a visit and learn how we can help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
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When a ‘Rash’ Might Be Something More Serious At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we recognize that rashes are common and frequently resolve quickly with minimal treatment. However, some rashes may signify underlying conditions that require prompt medical attention. Identifying when a rash is more than a minor irritation is key to protecting your health. Comprehending Common vs. Concerning Rashes Most everyday rashes result from irritants, allergies, heat, or minor infections and typically improve within a few days with over-the-counter treatments. However, if a rash lasts longer, worsens, or appears with other symptoms, it may signal a more serious issue. Identifying the difference between a routine rash and one that requires medical evaluation helps avoid complications and ensure appropriate care. Warning Signs to Watch For Certain features may indicate a rash requires clinical assessment, including: Rapidly spreading or worsening rash Severe pain, swelling, or blistering Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or red streaks Fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash A rash that does not improve after several days of treatment Dark, purple, or bruised-looking areas on the skin For example, a rash with fever may indicate a viral or bacterial infection, whereas painful blistering can suggest conditions such as shingles. In rare cases, rashes may signal autoimmune disorders or severe allergic reactions. Rashes That May Point to Underlying Conditions Some rashes may be linked to broader health concerns, including conditions that cause inflammation in the skin and other organs: Allergic reactions that may escalate into further severe responses Infections that spread beyond the skin if untreated Medication reactions that require immediate adjustment Persistent or unusual skin changes may be early signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions, especially if they do not heal or continue to change over time. Why Early Evaluation Matters Delaying care for a worrisome rash may allow the underlying condition to progress. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent discomfort and complications. A dermatology specialist can assess the rash’s appearance, location, and progression, and may recommend diagnostic tests if needed. This approach assures treatment addresses the underlying cause, not just the visible symptoms. When to See a Dermatology Specialist If you are unsure about your rash, it is best to err on the side of caution. Consider seeking care if: The rash is persistent, painful, or unusual in appearance Over-the-counter treatments are not effective You experience additional symptoms such as fever or fatigue The rash interferes with your daily comfort or quality of life At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our experienced providers supply comprehensive skin evaluations and customized treatment plans. We take time to understand your symptoms and deliver clear, effective solutions tailored to your needs. Protecting Your Skin and Your Health While many rashes are minor, some may be early warning signs of more serious health concerns. Monitoring skin changes and pursuing prompt medical advice can produce a notable effect. If you notice a rash that does not seem right, do not ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center for expert evaluation and peace of mind. Your skin is an important indicator of your overall health, and taking it seriously supports ongoing well-being.
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