Acne treatments
Dalacin T Topical Solution
Dalacin T is a prescription-only acne treatment. Dalacin T Topical Solution and Lotion both contain the active ingredient Clindamycin Phosphate, which is an antibiotic medicine.
DUAC Once Daily
Duac Once Daily gel is a topical treatment for mild to moderate acne. It contains two active ingredients: clindamycin is an antibiotic which stops the bacteria involved in acne from reproducing and benzoyl peroxide reduces blackheads and whiteheads and kills the bacteria involved in acne.
Differin Cream
Differin Cream contains adapalene, which is a form of vitamin A used in the treatment of acne. Differin has an anti-inflammatory effect and is used to reduce soreness and irritation of the skin.
Differin Gel
Differin Gel contain adapalene, which is a form of vitamin A used in the treatment of acne for its anti-inflammatory effect to reduce soreness and irritation of the skin caused by mild to moderate acne.
Epiduo Gel
Epiduo combines two active ingredients to treat acne. Adapalene work directly on the skin processes to help to reduce your acne and benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial that softens and peels the outer layer of skin.
Finacea 15% Gel
An effective topical treatment which contains azelaic acid, which is used to treat acne and rosacea.
Lymecycline
Lymecycline capsules are from a family of medicines called tetracycline antibiotics. It is used to treat acne by killing the bacteria which causes the infection and inflammation.
Oxytetracycline
A prescription-only acne & rosacea treatment used to treat bacterial infections, by controlling bacteria and inflammation.
Skinoren Cream
A topical cream containing Azelaic Acid used in the treatment of acne vulgaris and rosacea.
Zineryt
A powder and solvent for used the treatment of acne vulgaris in children, adults and the elderly.
Acne vulgaris is a common and sometimes distressing skin condition. ‘Spots’ and deeper lumpy comedones tend to appear on areas of your face, including the cheeks, forehead and chin. Acne occurs at all ages but is more common in teenage years and early adulthood. The most commonly affected sites are:
- Face
- Upper Back
- Upper Chest
Even though it is quite prevalent, acne can be a source of great distress to those with the condition. Feeling embarrassed about your spots is common and so too is sometimes wanting to avoid social events.
There are many common false beliefs about acne, including that it is caused by junk foods like chocolate and fast food or not washing properly. However, acne is generally hormonal or genetic. Teenagers are commonly affected with acne due to the large hormone increases that make them grow and mature. Older adults can also be affected if they are genetically predisposed.
Appropriate treatment depends on the degree of your acne. This is difficult to define and often best assessed face to face or via clear photographs. Generally, acne that affects multiple areas, including your face, chest and back, is considered to be at least moderate.
Mild acne
Creams such as benzoyl peroxide and adapalene (if not contraindicated) are some of the most common first line treatments for mild acne and can be used together if required. Topical antibiotics are recommended in combination with benzoyl peroxide.
Moderate acne
If topical treatments do not settle your symptoms, oral antibiotics may be considered. Lymecycline is the antibiotic that is offered by PrivateDoc. Depending on the degree of your acne, oral antibiotics can be combined with topical creams.
Severe/ non-responsive acne
If there is no significant improvement in your acne with trials of two oral antibiotics or if your acne is severe, referral to a dermatologist can be considered.
Non-medical treatment and self help
Acne is not caused by poor hygiene. Washing twice a day with a gentle soap and fragrance-free cleanser is adequate. Overcleaning the skin can cause dryness and irritation.
Picking or squeezing your spots increases the risk of scarring and infection and should be avoided.
Although foods are not a cause of bad skin, you should try to maintain a healthy diet with a good balance of nutrition and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Further information is available from: British Association of Dermatologists — Acne
The treatments offered by PrivateDoc can make a significant difference to your condition. Results vary from person to person and we often find that different treatments work better for different people. Both topical treatments and oral antibiotics will take time to work. Initial results are often judged at 8 weeks to assess the benefits of treatment.
With treatment, your condition can usually be much better controlled and easier to manage.