Acne Information and Treatment

About Acne

Approximately 75% of the people in their teens have acne to some extent. However, as many as 30% of adult women and 25% of adult men have acne also. The tendency for acne is inherited but there are many factors involved. Creamy cosmetics and skin care products, oral contraceptives, hormones, pregnancy, heat and humidity, and certain drugs such as iodides and bromides can make acne worse. Also certain foods in some people , emotional tension, lack of rest, and improper care of the skin can affect it. In females acne flares before menstrual cycles because of hormonal changes, but acne flares cyclically in everyone.

Because acne is so common and causes no loss from school or work, many tend to consider it a necessary part of growing up. However, acne can be a source of much embarrassment and emotional trauma. While acne usually improves after several years even if untreated, you need not to wait to outgrow it. Untreated acne can leave lifelong scars.

Newer treatments can moderate and even clear acne. The objective of treatment is to keep down the activity and to prevent scarring. Someday your acne will be gone. Scars are permanent. The red or purplish discoloration fades slowly but the pits remain.

Dr. Alkek has been evaluating and treating patients with acne since 1966. As a result of this experience, he has developed treatment programs for all types of acne using the best medications and techniques available. He is very aggressive in his treatment of acne and likes to see improvement as soon as possible.

On your first visit , we review your acne history and examine you. At that time, Dr. Alkek will determine the treatment program that is best for your problem. He will outline this program to you and give detailed written instructions for the P.A. or nurse to follow. The P.A. or nurse, who has been specially trained in acne care, will explain the details of your program. The P.A. or nurse will see you and give you acne treatments at regular intervals. As your acne improves, visits will be scheduled less frequently and eventually only maintenance care may be needed. Your treatment will be adjusted according to your progress. Each case is unique, and each patient responds differently, and each treatment must be custom tailored. Should you have any problems during or between visits, please call the office and speak to your acne specialist. If unsure about anything, do not stop or change any treatment without calling us first. Dr. Alkek will see you if there is any problem with your acne treatment or program.