What to Do If Oral Acne Medication Doesn't Work
What to Do If Oral Acne Medication Doesn't Work
Acne can be frustrating and persistent, especially if you've been taking oral medication for weeks or months without seeing the desired results. While many people find that oral acne medication like antibiotics, isotretinoin, or hormonal therapies can help control or cure their acne, some experience limited or no improvement, or develop side effects that make the treatment intolerable. If you're in this situation, don't give up hope or resign yourself to living with acne. Instead, consider these alternative or complementary strategies that may enhance the effectiveness of your oral acne medication, or offer alternative solutions to your acne problem.
Improving Your Skin Care Regimen
One reason why oral acne medication may fail to work as well as expected is that it doesn't address all the underlying factors that contribute to acne development and persistence. For example, if your skin is constantly exposed to pollutants, oils, and bacteria, no amount of oral medication can prevent new acne from forming or existing acne from worsening. Therefore, it's important to adopt a skin care regimen that complements your oral medication and promotes a healthy environment for your skin. Here are some tips to improve your skin care regimen:
- Use a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your face, neck, and chest. Avoid harsh scrubbing or exfoliation that can irritate your skin or spread bacteria around.
- Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer after washing your face to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness or flaking that may trigger acne. Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, which can help strengthen your skin barrier and retain moisture.
- Avoid touching your face with your hands or phone, which can transfer oils, bacteria, and dirt from other surfaces to your skin. Use earbuds or speakerphone instead of holding your phone to your ear.
- Consider using non-prescription acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids, which can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent new acne from forming. However, be cautious about using too many products at once or using them too frequently, as this can cause irritation, dryness, or peeling.
Adjusting Your Diet and Lifestyle
Another reason why oral acne medication may fail to work is that it's only addressing the symptoms of acne, not the root causes. Acne is a complex and multifactorial condition that can be influenced by many internal and external factors, such as genetics, hormones, stress, diet, and environment. While oral medication can help control the bacterial overgrowth, inflammation, or hormonal imbalances that contribute to acne, it may not be able to undo the damage already done, or prevent new factors from emerging. Therefore, you may need to make some adjustments to your diet and lifestyle to support your skin health and reduce your acne risk. Here are some suggestions:
- Eat a balanced and varied diet rich in whole foods, especially those that are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support skin health. Some examples include fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, and whole grains. Avoid or minimize intake of foods that are high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, or dairy, which may exacerbate acne in some people.
- Exercise regularly to improve your blood circulation, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness. However, avoid wearing tight or frictional clothes or equipment that can irritate your skin or trap sweat and bacteria.
- Manage your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, or by engaging in hobbies or activities that you enjoy.
- Get enough sleep and rest to allow your body to repair and regenerate your skin cells. Aim to sleep for at least 7-8 hours a night, and avoid staying up late or using electronic devices before bed, which can disrupt your melatonin production and affect your sleep quality.
Consulting with a Dermatologist
If you've tried these strategies and still don't see any improvement in your acne, or if your acne gets worse despite your efforts, you may need to consult with a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including acne. They can help you determine the cause and severity of your acne, and recommend appropriate treatments based on your individual needs and preferences. Some of the treatments that a dermatologist may suggest include:
- Prescribing stronger oral or topical medications that can target specific aspects of your acne, such as antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or hormonal therapies.
- Performing in-office procedures like extractions, chemical peels, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy, which can remove existing acne and prevent new acne from forming.
- Referring you to other specialists or therapies that can address any underlying conditions or factors that contribute to your acne, such as endocrinologists, allergists, or alternative medicine practitioners.
However, keep in mind that dermatological treatments may also have side effects or risks, and may not be covered by insurance or affordable for everyone. Therefore, it's important to discuss your options and concerns with your dermatologist and make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and values.
Conclusion
Acne can be a challenging and complex condition that requires patience, persistence, and flexibility to manage effectively. If oral acne medication doesn't work as well as expected, don't give up hope. Instead, consider improving your skin care regimen, adjusting your diet and lifestyle, or consulting with a dermatologist to explore other options. Remember that everyone's skin and acne are unique, and may require different approaches and treatments to achieve optimal results. With time and effort, however, you can overcome your acne and enjoy clearer and healthier skin.