In today’s society,Acne Medication  Has Side Effects,

 how you look can affect how people treat you.  If you have acne, you know all about this phenomenon.  Acne sufferers experience not only the physical symptoms of their skin condition, but also the emotional distress it causes. 

We think of acne as a condition that affects only teenagers, but it also impacts the lives of adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond.  Facial acne is one of the most noticeable forms of the skin condition, but acne can also occur in many areas of the body, including the back, chest, neck, and arms. 

The word “acne” refers to a variety of skin conditions that include plugged pores, other deeper lumps, and irritated pimples.  Plugged pores result in whiteheads and blackheads.  When an excess of certain hormones is present in the body, these hormones stimulate the skin to produce more oil.  The extra oil then leads to plugged pores and other forms of acne.

Side Effects of Topical Acne Treatments

Most acne sufferers have experienced the pain and disappointment involved in trying a variety of topical acne treatments.  Topical medications, which are applied directly to the skin, usually consist of acids, peroxide-based creams, or antibiotics. 

Many of these topical treatments involve chemicals that cause uncomfortable itching and burning.  These chemicals can actually be harmful to skin and cause severe drying.  Frequently, these topical medications cause unsightly peeling of the skin as well.

Side Effects of Oral Acne Medication

The side effects of oral acne medication are even more severe than those associated with topical acne treatments.  Where topical treatments can cause itching and burning, oral treatments can actually affect mood, vision, and other important elements of your health.

Isotretinoin, which is marketed under the brand name Accutane, is one of the most powerful acne medications available.  This medication has so many and such severe side effects that blood work is required during treatment in order to ensure the continuing health of the patient.  Some of the many side effects associated with Isotretinoin include chapped skin, joint pain, headaches, urinary problems, depression, birth defects, and decreased night vision.

Birth control pills are also sometimes used in the treatment of acne.  Because acne can be related to a hormone imbalance, birth control pills are thought to help control hormone levels.  Side effects are numerous and include darkening of the skin, depression, water retention, and an increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, and blood clots, as well as certain types of cancer.

Another common oral acne medication is antibiotics.  There is concern over the use of antibiotics for acne because it contributes to the development of drug-resistant bacteria.  In addition, there are several side effects experience by patients using antibiotics to treat their acne.  These include sensitivity to light, stomach problems, and sometimes even rashes.

Non-Medical Acne Treatments

A promising development toward the non-medical treatment of acne involves closely controlling diet and nutritional intake, as well as properly cleansing the body of the toxins and unbalances that can cause this unsightly skin condition.  Understanding what it means to be properly hydrated and taking steps to balance fluid intake and the needs of the body can also be part of an effective non-medical acne treatment program.

The advantage to non-medical treatments is that, unlike oral medications and topical treatments, they do not have harmful and even dangerous side effects.  Some people find that natural acne treatments improve the condition of their skin, as well as increase energy levels and promote good mental health.

Be Aware

The most important thing to remember about any new acne treatment is to be aware of the potential side effects.  Consult with your doctor about what you may expect to experience physically and mentally and weigh the potential benefits against the risks involved.  The best thing you can do for yourself is to make an informed decision about your acne treatment.