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Topical Retinoids in Acne

The Best Topically Applied Medication for Pimples

Nov 15, 2009 Hanish Babu

Topical retinoids are the best topically applied medications available for the treatment of non-inflammatory acne.

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A or retinol. They are the mainstay of topical therapy in the comedonal type of acne and are used in combination with other anti-acne medications in inflammatory pimples. There is consensus among dermatologists worldwide that the retinoids are the best choice for maintenance therapy in all types of acne after the active pimples are under control.

How Does Topical Retinoids Get Rid of Acne?

Retinoids, both topical and systemic, act at the root cause of acne formation, and thus are the medications of choice in all types of acne. Some more advantages to using retinoids include the following facts:

  • Topical retinoids help dislodge the comedonal plug through their action on the intercellular attachments of the keratinocytes, the cells seen in the epidermal layer of the skin and the hair follicle walls.
  • They increase the cellular proliferation and reduce the adhesion of the cells, resulting in unseating of the existing comedones and further prevention of formation of the blackheads and whiteheads.
  • Retinoids, both oral and topical, have been shown to suppress the sebum production.
  • They also have anti-inflammatory effects and an inhibitory effect on the P.acnes, though these may be secondary to the effects on sebum production rather than any direct influence of the medication.

Which are the Common Topical Retinoids Used for Acne Treatment?

Tretinoin, isotretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene are the common topical retinoids used for acne treatment. Effective concentrations of topical retinoids in acne range from 0.025% to 0.1%.

In Which Types of Acne are Topical Retinoids Useful?

Topical retinoids are the medications of choice in comedonal and papular acne and are used alone in comedonal acne. In minimally inflammatory acne, topical retinoids are used in combination with morning application of topical antibiotics like erythromycin or clindamycin or benzoyl peroxide.

What is the Correct Way to Apply a Topical Retinoid?

Retinoids are used only as night application, as they sensitize the skin to the sun. The medication should be applied in an even, thin layer over the whole acne prone area of the face, viz, the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. A pea size amount on the fingertip would suffice for the whole face for a single application.

How Long Should Topical Retinoids be Applied?

In comedonal acne, a minimum of 12-16 weeks application of topical retinoids may be required to get rid of the blackheads and whiteheads. Maintenance therapy of two to three applications a week may be continued indefinitely if the teen is prone for recurrences.

Topical Retinoids in Acne: Related Articles

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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.

The copyright of the article Topical Retinoids in Acne in General Medicine is owned by Hanish Babu. Permission to republish Topical Retinoids in Acne in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Topical Retinoids: Best Treatment for Mild Acne., Dr.Hanish Babu, MD Topical Retinoids: Best Treatment for Mild Acne.
   
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