Adult Acne
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Wed Sep 27, 2006 3:51 am

I am a 28 year old suffering from adult acne. It gets worse around the time of the month! but it is still an ongoing issue that i have had for the past year. I regulary use dermalogica products and diet is pretty good. Can anyone recommend a skin specialist to see in London that is going to understand my problem rather than GPs who tend to fob you off with antibiotics. Please help there must be an answer out there.......

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 4:30 am

Hi Sara,

Hormonal acne is a pain and esp in a polluted city it is amazing how many of us have blemishes..i never had them as a teenager! you are not alone!!!

I agree that unless you go to someone in internal medicine most docs will give you antibiotics or tell u to get on the pill. IF you do find a good one based on recommendations, then take what they say to you with a large dose of salt and don't buy loads of stuff they prescribe/advise without researching or trying samples.

Personally, I do not think that you need to see a specialist though unless the acne you have is very severe cystic acne. There is hope! I started taking agnus castus and omega oils (from holland & barrett) and i have to say at that time of the month i no longer have that many blemishes (i used to get alot under my chin/along jawline) I also drink alot of pomegranate juice, meant to be very good for clarifying the skin and body (also from Holland & Barrett ("Pomegreat - about £1.79 for a litre)

Dermalogica's microfoliant is a good product but i do not think that the rest of the range improves problem skin. I use Decleor (available from EDS or in London) and I think it is fantastic..i use the ylang ylang oil, cleanser for oily/combo skin and the aromawhite brightening cream. i also use the purifying mask one a week. These products are natural, do not irritate your skin, purify and tone. I have very irritable skin and it is gentle for me. If you buy two products from larger dept stores you can get a facial and see it if helps. For actual blemishes try the Body Shop tea tree nose and pore mask (just put a little of this on the spot till it dries) or Decleor 2 in 1 blemish treatment. They are not magic (quite mild, natural ingredients) but you will see results in reducing redness, inflammation and no marks left. If you want stronger medicines I found Differin gel to be the best for large blemishes (but gets worse before better unlike the natural stuff).

Earth to Body also does great masks for problem skin. There are lots of informative posts on this site about Decleor and Earth to Body (not available in London as far as i know).

On diet, ensure that you are not eating too many foods rich in iodine. Also, I know u know this but the more you worry about it, the more you will have blemishes. Here is a link with a list of acnegens..ensure that the products you are using do not contain them...

http://www.zerozits.com/Articles/acnedetect.htm#inglist

Keep the faith, put on a great lipstick, have fun with your friends and wear the best beauty aid, a smile!! These things are as much about the mind as the body. Good luck.

Wed Sep 27, 2006 7:36 am

Many Thanks Blacklace - some of the things you suggested i have tried. Agnus Castus is slowly working but i believe you have to take it for a long time for the effects to slowly work. Maybe ill try some of the decleor range, slightly worried at putting oily contents on my face - the dermalogica range and facials have been good for me - what are your thougths on microdermabration and the latest skin laser treatments? I heard that Dr Lowe at the Cranley Clinic in London is a good contact.

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 8:34 am

Hi Sarah!

A great resource for supplemental help can be found here:

http://wholehealthmd.com

There is a lot of great stuff in there that may help you.

I am not sure if shipping to your area would be cost prohibitive, but if not their acne serum is fantabulous... together with other products of there it is amazing.

Take care.
Bosoxy.

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 9:37 am

Hi Sarah,

I am wary of too many drastic treatments like these esp at your age. A consultation with a London clinic should be free though if you want more info but take along a friend you trust who can give you another opinion on what is said.

I have read that treatments like Nulite and microdermaabrasion can make these conditions worse. Some people here like the dermawand and baby quasar and i think these are good alternatives in addition to otc derma abrasion type products.

Other people here can maybe give you their experiences of skin lasers and derma-abrasion but do not make the decision to do these based on emotion or feeling fed-up. They are not likely to be magic bullets and can damage your skin. I would say if you are open to them, much better to get on a course of antibiotics (once its not accutane).

Good luck

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 3:54 pm

Ok, I can't really recommend a doc for you, as I live in the states, but I have to say that I love the expression 'fob you off'

I do agree that it might be time to see a doc. The general rule is that if you have been trying to treat it yourself for a couple of months with no success, it is time to see a professional. I have used antibiotics periodically (usually one cours every two to three years) but I suffer from cystic acne. It might be time for you to try an Rx retonal like Retin-A or Tazorac.

HTH,
Liz

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 4:34 pm

I recommend going to a dermatologist. Depending upon how much you want to spend and/or if you have insurance I would research some to go to. Through my old insurance I could go online and see who was covered through my insurance program. I then researched the doctor online (gotta love Google!) and sometimes I found helpful information and sometimes I didn't. Luckily for the last derm I went to about 6 months ago I was able to find out he has a good track record etc. Anyway, he was the first dermatologist to suggest Aldactone (also a high blood pressure medicine but is also used to treat hormonal acne in women by blocking androgen receptors in your skin). I had been going to all kind of dermatologists for the last 12 years and have tried pretty much most Rx meds out there but he was the first to suggest trying it. Especially b/c I refused to go on any more antibiotics (which I made clear in the beginning of my first appointment with him) and was ready to try Accutane. ALDACTONE HAS REALLY HELPED ME! And it is so cheap. You just have to make sure your liver isn't storing up too much Potassium (I therefore do not take supplments with potassium and regulate my consumption of potassium rich foods like bananas). Is Aldactone really hard on your body? I'm not sure but probably nothing compared to Accutane I would imagine. I was just so sick of acne and cysts ruining my life so I guess taking Aldactone is a compromise. I really haven't noticed any side effects.

I also use Tazorac .1% which has really helped.

Whatever the case I recommend seeing a dermatologist which it looks like you are seeking out. I wish I could recommend one in London but I'm in the states. Good luck though!

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 5:37 pm

I had thought about asking my derm about , but then I read that it has been shown to be a tumorigen. http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/spiron.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682627.html

so I am not sure. It really seems like a good alternative, but I was kind of turned off when I saw that and I quite researching it. Did your derm mention anything about this?

Liz

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 6:20 pm

abejita wrote:

I had thought about asking my derm about , but then I read that it has been shown to be a tumorigen. http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/spiron.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682627.html

so I am not sure. It really seems like a good alternative, but I was kind of turned off when I saw that and I quite researching it. Did your derm mention anything about this?

Liz

Isn't that nice. (I say sarcastically!) My derm probably based his decision to presribe this on the fact that I was ready to go on Accutane. He did mention that I would have to have my potassium levels monitored.

But, really, what doesn't cause some undesired side effect? Most Rx drugs have horrible side effects, unfortunately.

I think it comes down to determining if the benefits outweight the side effects. In my case, my acne was ruining my life. I realize that sounds very superficial but my big time break outs really impact me and contribute to depression. There have been times when I literally locked myself into my apartment and did not go to parties or get together with my friends to go out. This really had(has) a negative impact on my well being. At least my breakouts are nowhere near as bad as they used to be before Aldactone.

In my life in general I try stay away from toxic substances etc. But if it is necessary to take something, in this case the Aldactone, I do. I hope I don't have to be on it for that much longer... Neutral

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 7:02 pm

I was just wondering if he had mentioned anything to you. I do understand that some things in lab experiments don't necessarily carry over into human users. But after I read that, I kind of quite researching it. I figured if my derm brought it up, we could discuss it then.

Trust me, I understand how acne effects your life. I am the same way. I am in the middle of a rather persistant acne episode. I have been on a three month course of antibiotics and I switched to tazorac. Something is not right though, because for the last month or so, I have had quite bad breakouts on my chest and neck, which absolutely never happens when I am on antibiotics.

I have an appt with my derm next week, and I may bring up the subject of Aldactone with him. I'll let you know what he says.

liz

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 7:06 pm

amnis,

I have one other question for you. Has the Aldactone helped with oily skin. I read somewhere that it helps with over production of oil and sebum. I have incredably oily skin and it has been particularly bad during this breakout even with using .1% taz gel.

thanks,
liz

free skin care · Wed Sep 27, 2006 11:34 pm

abejita wrote:

amnis,

I have one other question for you. Has the Aldactone helped with oily skin. I read somewhere that it helps with over production of oil and sebum. I have incredably oily skin and it has been particularly bad during this breakout even with using .1% taz gel.

thanks,
liz

Yes, it has helped a bit with my oiliness (perhaps not as much as I would like).

abejita wrote:

Trust me, I understand how acne effects your life. I am the same way. I am in the middle of a rather persistant acne episode. I have been on a three month course of antibiotics and I switched to tazorac. Something is not right though, because for the last month or so, I have had quite bad breakouts on my chest and neck, which absolutely never happens when I am on antibiotics.

I have an appt with my derm next week, and I may bring up the subject of Aldactone with him. I'll let you know what he says.

I feel for you! Isn't it terrible how stuff on your face can rule your life?

How long have you been on the Taz? Unfortunately it took awhile for my treatment to really kick in and show marked improvement (like at least 2 months but more like 3). Even on it I still have had a few bad break out periods. (I don't mean to sound discouraging!!! It DOES help!) Have you been using the Taz on your chest and neck? I swear, even taking antibiotics can change your chemistry and make you break out in places you didn't before. I know that since taking the Aldactone I quit breaking out on my back and chest (I hope I didn't just jinx myself by saying that!!! Laughing

)

Yes, please let me know what your derm says about the Aldactone. I am curious to see what he/she says.

free skin care · Fri Oct 06, 2006 10:46 pm

amnis,

So I went to my derm yesterday, and I asked about the Aldactone. He said that he has read that it can cause tumors in rats, but that it has been used safely in humans for many, many years without any increases tumor activity. He did say that he doesn't like to jump to this particular drug first because he isn't comfortable with long term hormone therapy for acne. But he does prescribe it occasionally when there is a true hormone imbalance.

We talked about how my freak breakout happened after about three months of doing well on the taz. It only lasted for about three weeks and started clearing up quickly. So we decided not to freak out and change everything and I would go back and see him in a month or so. He said it is entirely possible that the breakout was from my yoga classes (that coincidently I have been going to for six weeks) I sweat a lot in class and my breakouts was on my back and across my chest where my sports bra is. I started using neutrogena's acne body wash (2% sylicic acid) and MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus Body spray (which burns like heck!) the new break out areas are almost totally clear

free skin care · Sat Oct 07, 2006 5:42 am

Dear Sarawalsh, I too am an adult acne sufferer (constantly congested skin). I was also using Dermalogica, but found that although it helped, my skin was never truly clear. I have now started using MD Formulations and will soon be following up with a Glyco Peel, recommended by the beautician. I am into the second week of using the Adult Acne Kit and can definately see an improvement. I have heard that microdermabrasion is quite harsh, but that a peel might be better. Idea

Maybe you could look into this line.

free skin care · Tue Nov 14, 2006 8:48 pm

I was an acne sufferer who tried antibiotics, dermatologists' prescribed lotions that dried out my skin and made my skin sensitive. My last dermatologist wanted me to go on birth control pills and Accutane. And that's where I draw the line. Honestly, I truly regret ever consulting any dermatologists!

Eventually, I gave up the whole medical route and tried Decleor products. For the first time in 20 years, my sebum production is under control and I have less pus-filled breakouts. It's refreshing to have a matte finish face and to have make-up stay on.

I definitely encourage you to try the Decleor products for oily/combination skin for six months to see whether they help your skin. Decleor was my last resort and I am so thankful that God led me to try this skin care line because I finally found skin care products that work for me.

Oh, by the way, if you decide to consult a dermatologist, I recommend consulting a medical dermatologist not a cosmetic one. The last one I consulted was a cosmetic dermatologist who was only interested in sucking money out of me.

free skin care · Tue Nov 14, 2006 9:15 pm

gotta say, I know a lot of people don't like the pill, but if you're getting acne in your 20's all of a sudden, it probably has to do with hormones more than your skin -- this my problem. I actually have great skin, but hormnonal acne. the pill can seriously help if you pick the right one.
I haven't heard of this adelactone -- is that UK? I think it's similar/same thing as spirolactone. anyways, it's an androgen blocker -- the same way some pills prevent acne (some also make it worse).
I've done a TON of research on pills and their androgenicity (eg, which ones will cause breakouts) so if anyone has a question about diff US brands let me know.

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 12:27 am

I suffered from acne ranging from mild to severe since I was 12 and until about 3 years ago, when I completed my treatment with Accutane. It is an extremely harsh drug, no question. I couldn't drink (which is hard in your 20s, going to shows all the time!). I had to go in for blood tests every month, had to be on birth control and nearly on anti-depressants. I became so depressed and moody that I quit the drug a few weeks before the 6 month mark.

That said, I wish someone had prescribed it to me when I was a teen, because it would have saved me years and years of anguish about my skin (and not just on my face). I thought I would never be able to wear an open summer dress or go to the beach without wearing a tshirt or something over my chest and back. I still get very minor breakouts but they are infrequent and very minor. I buy all kinds of open dresses, bathing suits, etc now. I can wear a tshirt more than once before washing it without fearing breakouts. I have pretty much normal skin. I even get compliments on my skin from complete strangers now, which is just bizarre.

Accutane appears to have permanently altered my skin type from super oily to combination -- a rather welcome outcome, to say the least. I still get a little bit oily on my nose, but my cheeks, forehead, and chin can actually get dry now. Exclamation

I don't need to use powder nearly as often as I used to.

I know I can still relapse from Accutane, so it's nice to hear about Aldactone. Maybe I'll try that if the breakouts come back and if it doesn't work, I'll always have Accutane. Laughing

If someone is really suffering from bad acne, not looking to have kids for a while, and willing to go through some awful times for 6 months, I would recommend Accutane to them without reservation. The results are worth it.

Wed Nov 15, 2006 4:54 am

Being a newby and reading this thread has me nearly in tears. I've been a moderate acne sufferer for about 25 years...and have just realized it doesn't fit my image of the perfect me at 40! That said, I'm tired of reading all the dermo this and product that. I've been talking to people with severe acne to see if it's not food-related, like eczema. Of my own circle of friends, the worst cases that were CURED were linked to corn and milk. I'm working on writing an ebook about this connection and how to clear the allergic response. Any of you game to try it?

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 7:25 am

radiantface wrote:

I was an acne sufferer who tried antibiotics, dermatologists' prescribed lotions that dried out my skin and made my skin sensitive. My last dermatologist wanted me to go on birth control pills and Accutane. And that's where I draw the line. Honestly, I truly regret ever consulting any dermatologists!

Eventually, I gave up the whole medical route and tried Decleor products. For the first time in 20 years, my sebum production is under control and I have less pus-filled breakouts. It's refreshing to have a matte finish face and to have make-up stay on.

I definitely encourage you to try the Decleor products for oily/combination skin for six months to see whether they help your skin. Decleor was my last resort and I am so thankful that God led me to try this skin care line because I finally found skin care products that work for me.

Oh, by the way, if you decide to consult a dermatologist, I recommend consulting a medical dermatologist not a cosmetic one. The last one I consulted was a cosmetic dermatologist who was only interested in sucking money out of me.

I am seeing one of the best dermo's in Toronto and he made the same suggestion. I told him with technology today, there has to be something better then Accutane! He was not happy that I did not take his recommendation but I told him that if Accutane could possably make me mentally ill, how would I be able to recognize that if I am mentally ill and seek medical attention? Then I went on and said that what if I had some weird emotional outburst or something at work and risk losing my job? (my family does not have a mental health issue but I simply do not want to take that chance)
He saw my point and agreed. I got prescription of Vit. A Acid cream and it is my beauty secret! Very Happy

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 7:28 am

Sorry, I selected the wrong "quote". I wanted to pick the Accutane post from annachka

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 8:56 am

Jentle - I think you might be on to something... good luck with your search.

I have a hard time believing that anything we may suffer from is due to a drug deficiency... and since my mom's eczema was brought under control when eliminating dairy and wheat I can't help but think acne may have similar issues attached.

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 10:40 am

Skincare wrote:

I am seeing one of the best dermo's in Toronto and he made the same suggestion. I told him with technology today, there has to be something better then Accutane! He was not happy that I did not take his recommendation but I told him that if Accutane could possably make me mentally ill, how would I be able to recognize that if I am mentally ill and seek medical attention? Then I went on and said that what if I had some weird emotional outburst or something at work and risk losing my job? (my family does not have a mental health issue but I simply do not want to take that chance)
He saw my point and agreed. I got prescription of Vit. A Acid cream and it is my beauty secret! Very Happy

Well, you do have a good point about moodiness. I read a lot about Accutane beforehand (so the gloom didn't come as a surprise) and I was very prepared for it. I didn't ruin any relationships or anything, but it turned out to be too much for me to handle in the end. The gloom did go away as soon as I stopped taking the drug.

In retrospect, it was worth it, just because of the results I got. It completely cured acne everywhere on my body and made my skin significantly less oily. I think any topical application would have been too expensive for me and couldn't have addressed as many concerns. I guess the main advantage of Accutane is that once you suffer through it, the results are mostly permanent. Any topical solution you have to keep buying, right? Or is the Vitamin Acid a permanent treatment?

free skin care · Wed Nov 15, 2006 7:24 pm

I think his response was once I notice that I no longer break out. I have been on it for two years and I don't find it expensive at all. The only side affect is getting dry skin. I don't get severe dry skin but if I did, I would let my doctor know.

Wed Nov 15, 2006 9:39 pm

Spironolactone is a miracle for hormonal adult acne. And it super cheap. It requires a prescription, and this is not the usual indication for the drug (It's a potassium-sparing diuretic.) It takes 3-4 weeks to see the results, but I promise, it's a miracle.

free skin care · Thu Nov 16, 2006 2:19 am

Acnease, I swear by this stuff and for topical application acne getaway E101. I have tried just about every topical cream, lotion and potion there is nothing that clears my skin like those two products.

I truly believe you have to tackle this kind of problem from the inside out. IMO If you're producing too much of a hormone it needs to be balanced or at least the excess excreted.

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