Back acne is a condition that often develops at puberty, and it may end without medical intervention when you’re in your late teens or the early 20s. However, it may persist well into adulthood for some people. The severity of acne can vary from just a few spots to large clusters, and, when left untreated, it can cause dark spots and permanent scars on the skin. Luckily, our dermatologists have several methods to treat acne on the back.
Topical Cleansers and Medications
One of the common treatment options for dealing with back acne is applying topical medications directly to the skin. If you have mild to moderate acne, then medicated cleansers and creams will likely be the first choice of treatment. These products usually contain a higher concentration of benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid than over-the-counter varieties. The medicine may need to be applied once or twice per day to keep acne under control.
Oral Medication
For more severe cases of acne, we may prescribe oral medication. Possible treatments include antibiotics, birth control pills for women, and isotretinoin, the main ingredient in Accutane. Isotretinoin is a powerful vitamin A derivative that changes the structure of the hair follicle and can prevent acne for years after finishing the treatment. However, it can have side effects while taking it, and it is known to cause birth defects, so it is never prescribed to pregnant women.
In-office Treatments
If acne is persistent, we offer several cosmetic treatments to help reduce its severity. One of the most effective is our Sciton Acne BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy, which uses broadband light to target acne-causing bacteria in the skin.
The Dermatology Clinic has been helping residents in Baton Rouge, LA with dermatological issues and cosmetic treatments since our start in 1947. Acne can cause low self-esteem, permanent scarring, anxiety, and depression, and we want you to be confident. If you want medical treatment for your acne, call (225) 769-7546 to request an appointment today.
