Acne Topical Medications FAQs
How to Deal with the Common Side Effects of Acne Creams and Gels
Nov 13, 2009
Many acne sufferers are unaware of the benefits of topical medications in acne. There are certain precautions to be taken while choosing and using the acne topical formulations.
Why You Should See a Dermatologist if You Have Acne
It is important to consult a dermatologist before you decide on the type of treatment for your acne, whether it be topical or systemic. Over-the-counter (OTC) products may save money for a while, but if the wrong choice is made and the pimples are not treated properly, the results will be permanent scarring and blemishes on the face.
Acne treatment choices depend upon the type of acne, skin type and extent and severity of the acne eruptions. A judicious decision on the best treatment for your particular type of acne can only be made by a dermatologist who will have extensive knowledge and experience in treating acne patients.
Which are the Formulation of Topical Medications Used in Acne?
For acne patients with oily and normal skin, gel formulations are preferred while for those with sensitive and dry skin, creams are chosen. Solutions and gels are more acceptable in hairy areas. As the medications have to seep inside the pores to be effective, ointments are not used as vehicles for anti-acne medications.
What are the Common Side Effects of Topical Medications in Acne?
The most common side effect of topical medications in acne is dryness of the skin. This is more common following retinoids and benzoyl peroxide. Reducing the amount of medication applied, washing off after a few hours during the first week of application and avoidance of harsh drying cleansers will control the dryness to a certain extent. A non-comedogenic moisturizer like sebium cream may be applied in the morning to reduce the dryness. Other side effects are:
- Sun sensitization. Common after retinoids, and sometimes with BP. These should always be applied at night only. Avoiding prolonged sun exposure and regular use of a water based sunscreen will reduce the chances of photosensitization in most patients.
- Flare up. Flare up of acne bumps is seen following retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide, in some patients. This is only an inflammatory blow up of the inflamed acne bumps and is a good sign. Hence treatment should continue without break in such cases, though frequency and concentration may be reduced for a few days till the flare up is controlled. A short course of oral antibiotics will help get the acne exacerbation quickly under control.
- Topical Clindamycin has been reported to cause diarrhea, bloody diarrhea and colitis in some patients.
- Contact allergic and irritant dermatitis reactions have been noted to topical acne medications. Allergic sensitization occurs one to two weeks after application and is characterized by redness, scaling, itching and oozing rashes on the face, neck, and, at times, in other areas of the body. Irritant reaction occurs within 12-24 hours of application and is limited to the area of application. If you suspect contact dermatitis as a result of the topical medication, immediately stop the application and contact your doctor.
Should the Medication be Applied Only to the Pimples?
The answer is no. As the surrounding skin may also contain microcomedones (hidden acne bumps), it is advisable to apply the topical anti-acne medication to the whole areas on the face prone for acne, like the nose, chin, cheeks and forehead.
While starting on topical retinoids like adapalene, isotretinoin or tazarotene, in the first one or two weeks, though, application is advised to the acne bumps only to reduce the possible irritant reactions. Later, the whole area should be covered.
For How Long Should the Acne Medicines be Applied?
Once active acne bumps disappear, the maintenance therapy with topical retinoids should continue for a few months till the complexion is free of any comedones or papules.
Topical Medications in Acne FAQ: Related Article
- Effective Usage of Topical Medications in Acne: How to Get Rid of Pimples with Creams, Gels and Lotions. Topical medications are useful in mild to moderate types and in combination with oral therapies in the severe types of acne. Which are the common topical medications available for acne?
- Topical Retinoids in Acne: The Best Topical Medication for Pimples. Topical retinoids are the best medications available for local use in the treatment of acne.
Sources:
- Sanjiv Jain. Acne in Fun with Dermatology. Jaypee Brothers, New Delhi. 1998; 1: 92-98
- Breathnach SM et al. Systemic Therapy in Rook’s Textbook of Dermatology. 2004; 4:72.15-17.
- Fitzpatrick's Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Fifth Ed, 2005.
Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purposes only so that patients are aware of the options available. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your doctor. If you do so, Dr.Hanish Babu, MD or Suite101 will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purposes only.
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