Discover Your Acne Treatment Options

If there’s one medical condition that virtually everyone understands, it’s acne. Blemishes like blackheads, whiteheads, and red papules or pustules are a common response to hormonal fluctuations occurring during the pre-teen years. Those blemishes will remain a problem into young adulthood or even late adulthood for many people. If you can relate, perhaps it’s time to work with Dr. Lynn Anderson or Dr. Kristen Rice at Midtown Dermatology to create an effective acne treatment plan in Tulsa, OK.

Topical Acne Treatments

Most people treat their acne at home with over-the-counter medications. The market for skin care products designed to combat acne is intensely competitive. For many, these treatments are effective when used consistently. For others, a more aggressive acne treatment plan from a Tulsa, OK, doctor is needed.

Topical products that contain benzoyl peroxide can help clear hair follicle blocks underneath the skin’s surface. Tretinoin creams are another option for breaking up blockages that cause whiteheads and blackheads. Your doctor may also prescribe topical or oral antibiotics if your pores are infected.

It may take some experimentation to see what works best for your skin. While topical acne treatments are effective for many people, they require consistent adherence to a daily skincare routine.

Hormonal Acne Treatments

If you have adult acne caused by natural hormonal fluctuations, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy. This is common for women in menopause or even extended peri-menopause. There is no exact age at which your hormones may begin to shift. Aging is an individual process that requires an individualized treatment plan.

While pre-teens and teens also experience acne caused by hormonal fluctuations, hormone therapy isn’t required in that age range. Your doctor may recommend a variety of natural ways to help control hormonal fluctuations, including consuming a healthy diet.

Some teenagers also find that starting birth control reduces their acne. Others find that it makes their acne worse. Teens should discuss their intentions with a doctor before going on any type of birth control.  

Acne Extraction

It is possible to remove whiteheads and blackheads with a small metal instrument that pops the blemishes out of the skin. Extraction doesn’t prevent acne from resurfacing, but it can help when the threat of infection is high. The only way to determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure is to work with a doctor experienced in modern acne treatments.

How to Learn More About Professional Acne Treatment

Do you want to know more about your options for acne treatment in Tulsa, OK? Call Midtown Dermatology at (918) 728-3100 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Anderson or Dr. Rice. Our treatment recommendations are always tailored to your unique healthcare needs.