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Suggest Treatment For Acne Problem And Blackheads On Face

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Posted on Tue, 7 Apr 2015
Question: I am having really bad problems with acne. I seem to be having slot of blackheads. And I wash my skin twice a day and use moisturizer.
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (31 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
a topical retinoid and a topical antibiotic

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

Acne is due to a combination of : (1) over production of a waxy oily substance called sebum
(2)plugging of hair follicles
(3)the presence of a particular bacteria
(4)inflammation of the skin

Topical retinoids are one first line agents that can be used for acne. These agents would help to reduce inflammation, treat the comedones and help reduce the numbers (the lesions in acne), also help to treat the blockage of hair follicles.

The most commonly prescribed are adapalene, tazarotene, tretinoin.
These should be applied once daily to clean, dry skin but can be applied less frequently (eg alternate day) if irritation of the skin occurs. Skin irritation and peeling can occur in the first few weeks but normally resolves with persistent use.

Topical antibiotics are also important. If you can obtain topical clindamycin instead of erythromycin, it may help, it works better in some persons.
It can be used along with the topical retinoid.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Acne Problem And Blackheads On Face

Brief Answer: a topical retinoid and a topical antibiotic Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic Acne is due to a combination of : (1) over production of a waxy oily substance called sebum (2)plugging of hair follicles (3)the presence of a particular bacteria (4)inflammation of the skin Topical retinoids are one first line agents that can be used for acne. These agents would help to reduce inflammation, treat the comedones and help reduce the numbers (the lesions in acne), also help to treat the blockage of hair follicles. The most commonly prescribed are adapalene, tazarotene, tretinoin. These should be applied once daily to clean, dry skin but can be applied less frequently (eg alternate day) if irritation of the skin occurs. Skin irritation and peeling can occur in the first few weeks but normally resolves with persistent use. Topical antibiotics are also important. If you can obtain topical clindamycin instead of erythromycin, it may help, it works better in some persons. It can be used along with the topical retinoid. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions