Retin-A Prescription Acne Treatment

The prevalence of acne on a global scale has reached astronomical heights. It seems that every other person you see has one or two pimples on their face. With such a surge in the number of people suffering from this terrible disorder, the number of products designed to supposedly cure it has skyrocketed. In a perfect world, acne products would work just as promised. However, this is rarely the case. Many of them are simply far too harsh for the skin. They actually worsen breakouts rather than improving them. Those that are more gentle work for some, however, have no effect on others. Everyone responds differently to over-the-counter acne treatments. It is safe to say that most don't achieve a completely clear complexion from OTC products. This is why many secure the expertise of a dermatologist.

Dermatologists have powerful medications at their disposal that are far more effective than those immediately available to consumers. The large majority of patients are initially prescribed a combination of topical creams and oral medications. Retin-A is one topical medication that most patients receive on their first visit. It is a retinoid, which means it is a chemical derived from Vitamin A. This medication works in somewhat of a different fashion than over the counter products. Instead of attacking acne bacteria, which is not the primary cause of breakouts, it helps improve skin cell turnover.

Tretinoin, as this mediation is also known, stops dead cells from obstructing pores by simply removing them. The other medications that are part of a prescription acne treatment include a cream or gel designed to kill acne bacteria (like benzoyl peroxide or erythromycin) and oral medications (like tetracycline) that work from the inside out to accomplish the same goal. Some patients go into this treatment assuming that it will be a short ride. This is usually not the case.

Retin-A will take over a month and half to gain traction. The first weeks can be extremely discouraging as new blemishes rise to the surface, making most people think that the product is a scam. You should be happy at the site of new zits in the beginning. This means that the medication is accomplishing what it was intended to do. Improvement will start to show after 2+ months.

If your current acne treatment is causing more aggravation than anything else, Retin-A may be the answer to a clear complexion. You will need to visit a dermatologist for a proper assessment before you can get your hands on this life-changing medication. You should try your best to take immediate action to prevent further physical and psychological damage from this terrible disorder.

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