Working on difficult skin can be humbling
Anyone who works with skin will tell you (if they’re being honest) they don’t always know what they’re looking at. I often compare skin to the ocean; it’s impossible to recognize and have a thorough understanding of all its components. Therefore, the unknown will always be present and new discoveries will be continuous.
Patient o.
23 yo., residing in Colorado.
I’ve known her and have worked on her skin since she was a teen. Up until a couple of years ago, she’s had relatively clear skin. So, what’s happening? How does someone go from fairly clear skin in their teens to acute acne in their 20’s? The answer is, I don’t know. I don’t have the answer and am struggling to find the culprit.
She has tried topical Rx antibiotics, topical and oral Rx antifungals and a topical Rx antiparasitic, having little success.
the ‘deep dive’ checklist:
All things to be considered,
* She was an AZ resident and now lives in CO, therefore, there has been an environmental change.
* Is this a hormonal impact? Has there been an addition or subtraction of a hormone inducing component?
She had a copper IUD implanted within the last 8 months or so. The acne was present prior to the implant; however, I think it may have increased in severity.
* Hygienic habits to consider, to include confirmation of thorough cleansing, hair is kept off the face, face is cleansed immediately after workouts, clean towels and pillowcases are regularly implemented.
* Review of all skincare products being used. There is nothing in the lineup that stands out as problematic.
she is now at the point where an oral acne medication is to be considered.
Natural oral supplements, such as pantothenic acid B5, vitamin A, D and Zinc have been shown to be promising in treating acne, varying in severity.
Common oral prescription medications prescribed for acne are as follows,
Antibiotics- Doxycycline, Minocycline, Tetracycline
Diuretic- Spironolactone
Birth Control Pill
Accutane
Patient O. ‘s Treatment Protocol Per Her Prescriber:
Topicals, to include,
Clindamycin 1%, Tretinoin 0.025%
Oral Antibiotic,
Doxycycline, 200mg per day, up to 12 weeks.
Update TBD.