| Request a complimentary consultation | Share this with a friend | Follow us on Twitter | Become a fan on Facebook |
|
Focus on Acne No discussion about acne would ever be complete without discussing its most potent and, unfortunately, its most infamous treatment option, isotretinoin or more commonly referred to as Accutane. Isotretinoin is better known for its potential side effect profile than for its curative properties. While there are real and, sometimes very serious, side effects like the risk of birth defects if a woman became pregnant while on the medication, the vast majority of patients only experience chapped lips and increased dryness of their skin. While no medication is absolutely safe, isotretinoin is a safe and very effective treatment when administered under the care of a physician. Isotretinoin has been around for almost 50 years and millions of patients have used it successfully to treat their acne. More importantly, for 90% or more of patients who use it, their acne was cured. In the world of medicine, this is significant as there are few treatments that can cure a patient of his or her chronic disease in a relatively short period of time. For some, acne is a serious disease that can dramatically affect his or her emotional well being and can sometimes lead to permanent scarring. For them and for patients whose acne is a chronic, refractory disease, isotretinoin can provide the most reliable and effective treatment option available. If administered early enough, it can save almost everyone from the acne scarring. Isotretinoin is usually taken for about six months with dosages based on the weight of the patient. Periodic lab work and monthly visits are required and precautions need to be taken to ensure women do not become pregnant. Isotretinoin therapy, when needed, is a highly effective and safe treatment option. If you would like to discuss personalized treatment options regarding isotretinoin, please call our office at (512) 482-9344 to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Rasmussen. |
The eŌs ethŌs
Acne in Teenagers Almost every teen can expect to get acne at some point during adolescence, but that doesn't make it easier to bear. The emotional toll of acne is a familiar problem for many young people and can wreak havoc on adolescent self-confidence. Fortunately, almost all cases of acne are treatable. Who gets acne? Anyone of any age can get acne, but it is most common in teens and is considered a normal part of adolescence. In fact, 100 percent of the population can expect to have acne at some time during adolescence, regardless of race or ethnicity. During puberty, elevated hormone levels stimulate higher sebum production than usual, increasing the chance of acne flares. Boys are more likely to get it during adolescence because their skin tends to produce more sebum. In adulthood, women are more prone to acne than men, likely because of the hormonal swings of menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. People with a family history of acne are also more likely have acne. Acne Myths Contrary to popular belief, acne and diet are not closely related. Acne isn't caused by sugar, chocolate, or greasy foods, although it's generally a good idea to limit such snacks. Acne is not a cleanliness problem. It is the oil from the sebaceous glands in the skin that clog the pores, not dirt like many of the commercials and advertisements would like you to believe. In fact, over washing your face can lead to the worsening of your acne. If you wash away all the natural oils on your skin by over washing, your skin will try to correct this by producing more oil which will lead to further clogging of the pores. Your pores can also be aggravated by oily cosmetics, stress, picking at blemishes, rough cleansers, and hard scrubbing. Another acne myth is that sunlight can make acne better. A suntan can temporarily lessen the appearance of acne lesions, but it won't make it go away. On the contrary, the sun can damage the skin in other ways by causing premature wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer. How is teen acne treated? Acne treatments range from over-the-counter (OTC) topical acne medications to oral prescription drugs. For teens, treating acne early is especially important to prevent it from worsening or causing acne scars. If acne does not clear up with the use of OTC medications, it is highly recommended to get your teen to a dermatologist. Dr. Rasmussen can offer a wide range of treatment options to treat your acne or the acne of your child with personalized treatment to achieve the best and quickest results possible. Stick With It Even prescription medications can not do their job properly unless they are given time to work. It's very important to be patient and take or use your medication as directed, for as long as directed. If you don't see results right away, don't be discouraged. Your medication is hard at work preventing new lesions from forming. Stopping treatment early will likely cause pimples and zits to reappear. If you or your teenager is suffering from acne, please call eŌs Dermatology & Med Spa at (512) 482-9344 to schedule a dermatology appointment with Dr. Rasmussen to discuss your treatment options. Source: Vivacare |
Product Highlight
This ultra-light cream eliminates shine from oil-prone skin and helps restore skin to a clear, matte, and perfectly moisturized complexion. |
 Luxurious med spa services from a name you trust. |
 Steven E. Rasmussen, M.D., FAAD, Dermatologist and Medical Director of eŌs Dermatology & Med Spa, conducts and oversees procedures and treatments |
| Unsubscribe |