Are you trying to deal with stubborn acne with ineffective at-home remedies? Or are over-the-counter products not doing the trick? Lakeside Pharmacy can help. 

Pharmacists in BC are able to write prescriptions for a variety of minor ailments. Our pharmacists at Lakeside can now assess for acne and prescribe topical products for it.

There are plenty of solutions out there to help you clear up stubborn acne, but you may be faced with so much advice that you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. 

There are numerous myths and misconceptions about acne and acne sufferers that can be put to rest, along with some simple things you can do to actually effectively treat your skin. 

Myths About Acne 

“Only teens get acne”

Although acne is most common among teens, people of all ages can suffer from this skin condition.

“If you have acne, you just need to wash your face more”

Although washing your face is important, washing your face more won’t cure acne. Try to wash your face gently twice a day to help decrease bacteria on your skin. 

“You should pop your pimples”

It’s never a good idea to pop pimples as this causes inflammation and spreads more bacteria on your skin. You may even end up scarring your face.

“Toothpaste on a pimple can help clear it”

It’s also not a good idea to put things on your skin that weren’t formulated for it. Instead, ask your pharmacist about topical treatments that can help clear pimples. 

“Acne will go away on its own”

While some people will outgrow their acne, for others it can become a long battle that follows into adulthood. Acne can cause scarring, and is known to affect the patient’s mental health so seeking out help to manage the condition is important to your overall health. 

Treatments for Mild, Moderate and Severe Acne

Acne starts when oil and dead skin cells clog the skin's pores. This traps bacteria inside, causing swelling, redness, and pus. For most people, acne starts during the teen years due to hormonal changes that make skin oiler.

There is a range of treatments for acne, depending on the severity.

For mild acne, most people have success with topical treatments available over the counter, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. 

Make sure to also cleanse your skin with mild soap and warm water (not too hot!). You should look for skin care products that say “non-comedogenic” meaning it won’t clog pores.

If those treatments don’t work, you may need to get a prescription for a stronger topical treatment. You can seek the advice of a pharmacist at Lakeside Pharmacy for help with a prescription.

For moderate to severe acne, your doctor or pharmacist may want to prescribe a mix of treatments. 

That may mean using a prescription topical gel, cream or lotion, such as retinoids or azelaic acid, combined with oral antibiotics or retinoids, like isotretinoin (otherwise known as Accutane). 

Low dose birth control pills containing estrogen can also help acne strugglers. 

No matter if you’re suffering from mild, moderate or severe acne, Lakeside Pharmacy can help. Visit us or call today to discuss treatment options. 

 

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