Acne is a common problem that affects millions of people in the United States each year. It occurs when oil-producing sebaceous glands get clogged, leading to what are commonly called pimples, zits, blackheads and whiteheads. In kids, acne problems tend to surface during puberty and may be linked to changes in hormone levels. There are a variety of possible treatments.
Good Hygiene
Dr. Elizabeth Landolfo of Duke Children's Hospital and Health Center says that to prevent and treat acne, it's important to try to keep oils that can clog pores off the skin. Many kids develop acne on their faces, so she recommends washing with warm water two times a day. Wash gently and pat dry. Don't rub, pop or squeeze lesions. Landolfo also suggests looking for products that are non-comedogenic, which means they're designed not to clog pores. Keeping hair and hands off the face can also reduce oil on the skin. Don't forget sunscreen, and stay away from tanning booths.
Topical Treatments
For mild cases of acne, Duke's Elizabeth Landolfo suggests trying over-the-counter topical medications containing benzoyl peroxide. Prescription treatments also are available. Children's Hospital Boston says antibiotic creams may be used to help to slow or stop acne and reduce inflammation. Tretinoin may be recommended to stop new acne lesions from developing and speed cell turnover to unplug pimples. Adapalene is used to decrease the formation of acne lesions.
Systemic Treatments
If skin creams aren't enough, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics to be taken along with the topical treatment. Dr. Elizabeth Landolfo says oral antibiotics are generally prescribed when acne is moderate to moderately severe and covers a quarter to three-quarters of the face. She warns it may take time to see any results. Children's Hospital Boston says some of the common systemic drugs include doxycycline, erythromycin and tretracycline.
Treatment for Severe Cases
Children with severe cases of acne may be prescribed an oral medication called isotretinoin. Children's Hospital Boston says it can reduce the size of the oil-producing sebaceous glands, increase the shedding of skin cells and affect hair follicles. The hospital says it's effective in 85 percent of patients, but it can have some serious side effects. The drug may cause psychiatric changes, and the medication cannot be taken by women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant because it can cause birth defects, miscarriage or premature birth.
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