Acne Medications

Acne can be a real distress for many of us, and it's really tempting to try every possible solution out there that might help clear your skin. You may be starting to consider prescription acne medications like isotretinoin, tretinoin, or benzoyl peroxide.

While these medications can be very effective, they should be considered a last resort for treating acne. Here's why:

Firstly, these medications often come with side effects, some of which can be quite severe. For example, isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) is known to cause dryness, peeling, and increased sensitivity to the sun. It can also cause birth defects and is not safe for pregnant women. Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide can also cause dryness, peeling, and redness, which can be especially frustrating if they don't clear your acne immediately.

Secondly, depending on the medication you use, you may need to be under close medical supervision. For example, you may need to have your liver function tested regularly while taking isotretinoin. Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide can also increase your risk of sunburn, so you'll need to be very careful about wearing sunscreen and avoiding the sun while using them.

Finally, long-term use of these medications can lead to antibiotic resistance, which means that the medication might not work as well in the future if you need it.

So before deciding to take prescription acne medications, consider all your other options. Try adjusting your diet and lifestyle first. Drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid processed foods and refined sugars, and visit an Esthetician that is experienced in treating acne.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to acne, and what works for one person may not work for another.