Skin problem

<p>See a dermatologist. Try Benzaclin. It may cost a little more than twenty dollars (maybe twenty five) but it clears your skin up in a matter of days. It's much less of a pain in the ass than Proactive, and much faster.</p>

<p>do a colon cleanse. seriously.</p>

<p>I'd recommend seeing a dermatologist as well, although in my experience, it's usually a long experimentation process to find something that works. I've been on several different types of acne cream/medicine, and it's only now that the combination seems to be working (10% benzoyl peroxide + Differin + low grade antibiotic). </p>

<p>I, personally, would want to be fully aware of all the risks involved taking Accutane, especially if you're female (I haven't taken it for the following reasons). It's like a 6 month course of drugs, and I believe it can get kind of expensive. Accutane is a mutagen (if you get pregnant while on it, the baby may be prone to severe birth defects). You usually have to sign a pledge that says you'll either be abstinent during the course and for a month afterwards or use 2 forms of protection. Also, I'm not sure if there's been any studies on the long-term effect of Accutane on mutating eggs...so just something to be aware of/think about. Patients may also experience depression, and it's been blamed on some suicides. It may also cause a reduction in night vision, muscle pains, and dry skin/lips, etc. But then again, there's been many success stories and people that think it was just the thing to cure their acne...</p>

<p>I believe in old wives tales (it's a british thing) but dab vinegar on them.It worked for me!Just do this every morn and evening for about a week,it stings a little and smells but its nothing a little perfume cant hide.</p>

<p>Advice from a pharmcist and parent:
See a dermatologist. You probably have acne, but it might be something else. Acne does not normally itch, although cystic acne can be quite painful. Over the counter products may be useful for mild or intermittant acne, but if one or two have failed, don't waste any more money on OTCs. You would be better off to see a dermatologist and use the Rxs. Many people have prescription coverage where they only have a small copay. </p>

<p>Usually, a dermatologist will start out with a topical regimen, such as Cleocin foam or pads + Differin gel. Differin is milder than the old Retin-A gel, but some prefer the Retin-A if the Differin doesn't give the desired result. If there is little or no improvement after several weeks, you will probably try an oral antibiotic in the tetracycline family, such as minocycline or doxycycline. Some try erythromycin, but this is harder on you stomach and can interact with other drugs. Another oral medication that is helpful is a combination prescription vitamin called Nicomide. This has sometimes been effective in reducing residual redness from healed acne lesions. (It worked great for my son!) The Accutane has many side effects and is usually reserved for stubborn cystic acne these days.</p>

<p>You should take some action so that your skin doesn't have permanent scarring. Additionally, there is the benefit of increased social confidence and social acceptance if you can get the problem under control. The most important thing is to comply with your prescribed regimen! This means you will have to take/appy your medications regularly without missing too many doses, even though it may take several weeks to see an improvement. Your skin may even look a little worse for the first week or two. Just stick with your prescribed routine and return to your doctor for evaluation when indicated .</p>