Acne is a skin disorder that affects not just teenagers, but children and adults as well. Though acne has been studied and treated for many years, the dermatology world continues to make new discoveries over the causes and processes of the disease and the best ways to prevent and treat acne and scarring. Newer research has now highlighted the significance of inflammation in the acne process. Also, it is accepted now that all types of acne, from black heads to cysts can cause scarring. This makes even the “mildest” of acne worth treating.

Retinoids are a drug class that I use in nearly every acne patient that I care for. Common retinoids include generic tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene. The benefits of retinoids for acne control and improvement in scarring are many: lessening inflammation, making pores less “sticky”, stimulating collagen, and refreshing top layers of skin. Unfortunately, I have many patients come to see me who have had negative experiences in the past with these medications. If a patient applies their retinoid with a large amount and too frequently, the patient may develop a rash, burning, and excessive dryness. This is not an allergy, rather, an improper way to use the medication that sets the patient up for failure. I often tell my patients that it is my goal to make them “love” their retinoid. It is the foundation to my acne treatment and an exceptional tool for preventing new acne in the long-run and improving scarring.