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Are topical and oral medicines a must for acne treatment?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been suffering from acne for one month, mainly it is cystic acne. I have always had this issue on and off, but this time it is painful, and new acne keeps coming. The scar too takes a long time to go. I have been using the over-the-counter Benzoyl peroxide face wash, Benzoyl peroxide 10 %, and Tretinoin 0.025 % for the past three weeks. The doctor suggested taking Aldactone oral medicine. Can the acne get treated with topical medicine oral medicine or both? Also, please let me know the medicines.

Thanks.
Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney is a renowned Dermatologist with specialization in Cosmetology, Dermatology, and Venereology. She has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail disorders, along with advanced cosmetic procedures for aesthetic enhancement. Skilled in managing acne, pigmentation, infections, and sexually transmitted diseases, Dr. Sawhney is dedicated to providing personalized treatments that improve skin health, appearance, and overall confidence.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have gone through your history and seen the attached photographs (attachments removed to protect patient identity). According to me, you need both oral as well as topical medication to treat acne. Continue with the face wash but Benzoyl peroxide 10 percent is too strong for the face. Instead, use Benzoyl peroxide 2.5 percent gel on the pimples in the morning and Adapalene gel on the pimples at night. Along with this take a course of Azithromycin 500 mg daily on three consecutive days in a week for at least four to six weeks.

This is the mildest oral drug used in acne treatment and hope it works in your case. I do not know whether these drugs will be available over the counter in your country. Besides this keep your face dry, avoid applying cream or moisturizer, avoid oiling of the scalp, and reduce the intake of sugary foods. You can continue this treatment for six weeks and then revert to me. Wish you a speedy recovery.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.

The Probable causes

1. Seborrhea. 2. Hormonal imbalance.

Probable diagnosis

Acne vulgaris.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sneha Kannan
Published At February 5, 2016
Reviewed At October 3, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney is a renowned Dermatologist with specialization in Cosmetology, Dermatology, and Venereology. She has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail disorders, along with advanced cosmetic procedures for aesthetic enhancement. Skilled in managing acne, pigmentation, infections, and sexually transmitted diseases, Dr. Sawhney is dedicated to providing personalized treatments that improve skin health, appearance, and overall confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Kannan is a skilled Dental Surgeon with expertise in providing general dental care, including scaling, fillings, and preventive treatments. She does oral surgery procedures such as extractions and minor surgical interventions. She does procedures in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. She is an expert in doing endodontic treatments such as root canal therapy. She is well-versed in doing procedures in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and smile correction. She can provide pediatric dental care for children’s oral health and preventive treatments. She promotes oral hygiene awareness and preventive dental practices.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Prep / Recovery Guide

Acne Treatment Prep and Recovery Guide

How it works

Acne treatment often requires a combination of approaches. Understanding both topical and oral medications, along with lifestyle changes, can help manage your condition effectively.

1

Combined
Approach

2

Adjust
Topicals

3

Oral
Medication

4

Lifestyle
Changes

5

Plan
Follow

6

Medication
Disclaimer

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.
Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney
Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney

Dermatology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney is a renowned Dermatologist with specialization in Cosmetology, Dermatology, and Venereology. She has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail disorders, along with advanced cosmetic procedures for aesthetic enhancement. Skilled in managing acne, pigmentation, infections, and sexually transmitted diseases, Dr. Sawhney is dedicated to providing personalized treatments that improve skin health, appearance, and overall confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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