Acne is inflammation of a special hair follicle. This specialized follicle occurs anywhere from the mid chest up. Around puberty this follicle makes not only more oil, but a different kind of oil. This change leads to formation of blackheads in the follicle, accumulation of certain kinds of bacteria, and redness and inflammation. Blackheads are not dirt, and acne is not usually primarily from food or poor washing techniques. Most teens grow out of their acne by the early twenties; however we all know how miserable even a few pimples can be.

Acne is made worse by: sweating, stress, chlorine (indoor swimming pools), restaurant oils, mineral oil products (some moisturizers, hair products, etc).

Sometimes, especially for girls, acne is a sign of abnormal hormones or thyroid disease. Usually, however, acne is a “normal” part of being a teenager.

If you are prone to oily skin, simple care of acne includes using benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid cleansers. However if your skin tends to be dry or sensitive, these drying agents might make you worse. In that case gentle cleansers and moisturizers can help.

Acne is always worth treating if it bothers you. If over the counter remedies do not work, please come see me. Prescription treatment options include: topically, there are benzoyl peroxides, topical antibiotics, azeleic acid, sulfur, retinoids (such as retin A and differin). Pill forms include antibiotics, Accutane, and spironolactone. There are procedures which are not covered by insurance. I can offer peels; some centers offer blue light therapy and more aggressive peels as well.

Retin A Prior Authorization

I have given you retin a cream to treat your actinic keratoses, your acne or perhaps your wrinkles.

Because of your age, your insurance won’t pay for the medicine – no matter what. Therefore my office will not go through the prior authorization process. You are responsible for paying for the creme out of pocket.