Have you given up on your skin? When nothing you do improves your acne, it's easy to lose hope. Dr. Damon McClain and Dr. Susannah McClain, your Pittsburgh, PA and Coraopolis, PA dermatologists at Three Rivers Dermatology, explain how they can help you manage this condition.

Managing acne at home
Acne occurs when your pores become clogged with oils and dead skin cells. Bacteria in the pores causes them to become inflamed and red. Preventing blockages is a simple way to reduce breakouts. You can prevent or reduce blocked pores by:

• Washing your face daily with a mild cleanser
• Pulling your hair away from your face and washing it often. Oils from your hair can collect on your skin, making acne worse. If your hair tends to be oily, it's a good idea to wash it every day.
• Choosing makeup, sunscreen and moisturizers that are oil free.

Medicinal treatments

Over-the-counter acne medications such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can kill bacteria on your skin, reduce blockages and promote rapid skin turnover. Additionally, adapalene gel just became available over the counter and is a very mild form of Retin A which can be used nightly. If home care doesn't help your acne, your dermatologist can offer several stronger medications available only by prescription, such as antibiotics (both oral and in cream form) and retinoids. When acne is severe and doesn't respond to these treatments, other options may be recommended.

Are you tired of living with acne? Dermatological treatments can help you finally get rid of your pimples. Call Drs. Damon and Susannah McClain, your Pittsburgh, PA and Coraopolis, PA dermatologists at Three Rivers Dermatology, at (412) 262-4911 to schedule an appointment.