Acne

The four factors main which are thought to contribute to acne include:

• An increase in oil secretion rate.
• A change in oil composition.
• Abnormal growth and “stickiness” of the cells of the skin, which allow for acne inducing bacteria to overgrow.
• Release of male hormones.

Circulating hormones (which change in composition one week before a woman’s period) can increase or change the rate of sebum or oil production. This usually results in the adult female complaining of a flare-up of acne one week prior to menses. If a female or young child has excessive hair growth, abnormal menstrual cycle pattern, persistent headaches or other signs of masculinity, it is possible that an underlying medical condition such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome may be present. Birth Control Pills and/or Spironolactone may be useful treatment options in such instances.

Other items which can contribute to acne include:

• Friction
• Sweating
• Heredity
• Resistance Infections
• Environmental Agents (Greases, Solvents)
• Stress
• Exposure to Lanolin or Vegetable Oil Based Cosmetics
• Diet (high glycemic diet)

Everyone can develop acne. Some acne conditions are triggered by hormones, medications, cosmetics, and environmental factors.

Nutrition

Although some people with acne report that certain drinks and foods (particularly nuts) make their symptoms worse, there is no scientific evidence that any food (even chocolate) affects acne. It is possible that food allergies may play a role in adult acne. We advise our patients to avoid foods that appear to aggravate their symptoms. Supplements which have been used to treat acne include:

• Zinc (30 mg two times per day for a month, then 30 mg per day) — Some studies indicate that the mineral zinc may reduce the effects of acne.
• Niacinamide (as a 4% topical gel) — One study found that applying a 4% niacinamide gel to the skin two times per day for two months significantly reduced acne lesions. However, the study lacked a placebo, so it is hard to tell exactly how effective niacinamide might be.
• L-carnitine — Researchers in Greece showed that, among a large group of people, mild side effects from isotretinoin, e.g., dry skin, chapped lips, dry eyes, and nosebleeds can be diminished by taking L-carnitine.
• Vitamin A — has many of the same properties as other retinoids but with less side effects. Too much vitamin A can be toxic, so talk to us beforehand to determine the appropriate dose. Do not take vitamin A if you are pregnant or suffer from liver disease.

Herbs

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternafolia, 5% gel) — Applied topically, tea tree oil may help reduce bacteria on the skin, lessen inflammation, and reduce acne lesions. One study compared the effectiveness of tea tree oil gel with benzoyl peroxide lotion in 119 patients with mild-to-moderate acne. Patients in both groups improved, and those using tea tree oil reported less side effects (including stinging, itching, burning, and dryness) than those using benzoyl peroxide.

Our staff looks forward to helping you to answer any questions that you may have about acne. Remember, to follow through with your prescribed treatment plan to achieve optimal results. Sometimes this may result in your condition worsening temporarily. Though an instant “cure-all” is currently not available, we usually can effectively treat this common skin disorder. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please click here.

Perioral dermatitis tends to occur around the mouth. Most often it presents as a red, scaly rash. This condition can spread up around the nose and eyes as well. It is thought to be a combination disorder that is part acne, part seborrheic dermatitis and part eczema. The condition most often occurs in women.

There may be more than one cause of perioral dermatitis. One common exacerbating factor is the prolonged use of topical corticosteroid creams and nasal sprays. Moisturizers are another common contributing factor. Treatment involves the avoidance of these precipitating factors and prescription oral antibiotics which are taken for at least eight weeks. Earlier discontinuation of the antibiotic can result in a rebound flare of the disease.