All articles tagged with #acne
Dermatologists note that adapalene, a potent retinoid once available only by prescription, is now sold OTC in products like Differin, offering acne-fighting and texture-boosting benefits with potential for dryness. Several affordable options start around $13, though users should apply a pea-sized amount at night and moisturize to minimize drying.
Danya Issawi recounts how a viral TikTok blaming a Zinus mattress for her adult acne sent her into a years-long spiral of skincare trials and anxiety; while researchers have found no proven link between mattresses and acne, the piece shows how social-media claims can shape health decisions, leading her to replace her bed and regain peace of mind and better sleep.
The Cut investigates the idea of an “Accutane nose job,” explaining that isotretinoin (Accutane) does not alter bone or cartilage like rhinoplasty. Instead, it treats acne by shrinking oil glands and reducing inflammation, which can make the nose appear sleeker when blemishes clear. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner have claimed effects, and some doctors even use isotretinoin after nose surgery to curb swelling, but the drug carries many side effects and is typically a last-resort acne treatment.
The Cut reports that spironolactone, a cheap blood-pressure medication used off-label for hormonal acne, has exploded on TikTok as a potential ‘miracle cure’ for adults, with personal stories of clear skin after trying multiple treatments and endorsements from celebrities; however, doctors warn it isn’t a universal fix and emphasize medical supervision due to possible side effects and hormonal considerations.
Skin dysmorphia is a mental health condition in which people obsess over imagined or minor skin flaws, a trend amplified by acne fears and social media. The Independent’s feature shares sufferers’ experiences and expert insights, warns about extreme or unsafe skincare and procedures, notes a proposed Skin Dysmorphia Scale to improve identification and management, and calls for closer collaboration between dermatologists and mental health professionals, along with practical steps for self-audit and seeking support.
During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes can trigger acne in midlife—often on the chin and jawline—even for women who’ve been clear for years. Treatments are typically hormonal (spironolactone, birth control, or hormone therapy) plus topical retinoids or antibiotics, with isotretinoin for more severe cases. Lifestyle steps like adequate sleep, stress management, non-comedogenic skincare, and proper cleansing help; if OTC products fail after about two months, see a dermatologist. Acne often improves after menopause, though evidence on GLP-1 medications and acne remains inconclusive.
Microdosing Accutane, a treatment for severe acne, is being explored as a way to reduce its often severe side effects, but its effectiveness remains uncertain.
Researchers are developing acne vaccines that aim to treat and prevent the condition by targeting bacteria and inflammation, offering a potential long-term solution beyond topical treatments and antibiotics, with clinical trials underway by companies like Sanofi and academic researchers.
Lili Reinhart shared her personal techniques for hiding acne, including creating fake bangs and using filters on set, highlighting the unrealistic beauty standards in Hollywood. She received praise for her honesty and relatability, inspiring many fans to embrace their imperfections and challenge societal beauty norms.
Popping pimples in the "danger triangle" of the face, an area from the nose bridge to the mouth corners, is often cautioned against due to potential serious infections, though such cases are extremely rare. Experts advise against pimple popping in general, as it can lead to infections, scarring, and skin discoloration. Instead, they recommend using treatments like hydrocolloid bandages and over-the-counter medications such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. For persistent or severe acne, consulting a dermatologist is advised.
Despite following a strict skincare routine, many people still struggle with acne due to factors like over-washing, using inappropriate products, hormonal imbalances, genetics, poor laundering habits, and stress. Dermatologists suggest that acne can be influenced by a variety of lesser-known causes and recommend a balanced approach to skincare, proper product selection, and addressing underlying issues such as hormonal changes and stress.
A generic high blood pressure drug, spironolactone, has become the most commonly prescribed oral medication for treating acne in women, surpassing antibiotics and birth control pills. This shift is influenced by guidelines to limit antibiotic use to combat drug resistance and growing evidence supporting spironolactone's safety and effectiveness. The rise in IUD use, which can lead to increased acne, also contributes to this trend.
Dermatologists are increasingly prescribing spironolactone, a blood pressure medication, to women for treating acne, with prescribing rates rising nearly 300% from 2017 to 2020. The drug works by blocking hormones that cause acne, particularly in women, and is considered when other treatments like oral antibiotics or creams don't work. While spironolactone is generally safe, it's not FDA-approved for acne and has potential side effects, so more high-quality studies are needed to fully understand its long-term safety and efficacy.
Dermatologists are increasingly prescribing spironolactone, a blood pressure medication, to women for treating acne due to its ability to block hormones that cause acne. The drug, which is not FDA-approved for acne, has seen a nearly 300% rise in prescribing rates for acne in women from 2017 to 2020. While spironolactone has shown effectiveness in treating acne, its long-term safety and potential side effects, including mild ones like breast tenderness and irregular bleeding, as well as more serious ones like potential impact on pregnancy and cancer risk, need further study. Despite these concerns, the American Academy of Dermatology is encouraging the limited use of antibiotics for acne treatment, potentially leading to increased use of spironolactone.
Dermatologist Dr. Charles Puza warns that high doses of vitamin B6 and B12, commonly found in multivitamins and supplements, can cause or worsen acne by affecting the bacteria on the skin. Many supplements contain doses far above the recommended intake, leading to potential side effects such as skin problems. Research has shown that these vitamins can alter the DNA of acne bacteria and help them thrive, potentially leading to breakouts and skin lesions.