Adult acne is on the rise. We are more often called on to help adults – starting from late 20s all the way to 40s, and even older individuals at times. Our treatment plan at RENDER, looks at acne management from 3 points of view – clearing up any acne, clearing up the marks and scars, and the most important step – preventing any further acne, and therefore scars. Of all the 3 goals, the first two are relatively easy, but the third requires a lot of planning and follow through. In short, it is quite easy to clear the skin, but more difficult to maintain it clear. That is why, all acne management programs at RENDER come with customized home maintenance plans – which can easily be followed at home, to keep the skin clear, glowing and importantly, healthy!
So how do we manage acne like this?
This is a case of grade IV acne – with cystic lesions, inflammation and a tendency to scarring. Mrs C, is a home maker, aged 38 years, and has been suffering from acne since her first pregnancy at 27 years of age. Her acne is quite painful, and has been always active throughout the last 10 years, with worsening around her menstrual cycles. She has been undergoing monthly facials and hair spas for the last 3 years.
Pre treatment work up
An acne of this severity definitely needs tests – to rule out hormonal issues, and to plan the medical treatment.
Setting up for health
The diet needed a few changes – like cutting down on fried foods, increasing water intake, limiting the intake of dairy products and an early dinner time, to help with insulin resistance.
Lifestyle changes were also suggested – an early bed time, and some physical activity – she decided to consider zumba classes with her children. Most importantly, she was asked to discontinue all facials and scalp massages.
Treatment Protocol
She was started on a 3 month course of medicines, intralesional steroid injections, chemical peels, oral and internal sunscreens and a gentle face wash. Corrections for hormonal and vitamin deficiencies were also done. And here is the result.
Follow up Plan
As there was a long history of pimples, the scarring was significant. Having controlled the acne, the next step is to work on scar revision. The best option in this case would be Microneedling Radiofrequency, which can give really good results in Indian skin types. Of course, sunscreen will have to be continued, along with all the lifestyle changes discussed above.
