By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC, Concierge Physician in Miami Florida – Internal Medicine Specialist/ Family Medicine and Cardiologist
Meet Lea
Lea, a 17-year-old high school senior, was tired of hiding her face behind her hair and makeup. For years, she struggled with painful cystic acne that left her feeling embarrassed and self-conscious. Drugstore creams and face washes didn’t help, and she was losing hope.
Lea’s journey to clear skin wasn’t overnight, but understanding her acne type and finding the right treatment made all the difference. If you’re like Lea, here’s what you need to know about acne and how to tackle it.
What Causes Acne?
Acne happens when your pores get clogged with oil, dead skin, and bacteria. Hormonal changes, like during puberty or stress, can make it worse. Lea found that her acne flared up before exams—proving that stress is often a culprit.
Other triggers include:
• Genetics: If your parents had acne, you’re more likely to have it too.
• Diet: Foods like sugary snacks or dairy may contribute to breakouts.
• Skincare Mistakes: Using heavy, pore-clogging products can make acne worse.
The Types of Acne (And What They Look Like)
1. Non-Inflammatory Acne (Lea started with these):
• Blackheads: Small black dots caused by clogged, open pores.
• Whiteheads: Similar to blackheads, but the pore stays closed, creating a white bump.
2. Inflammatory Acne (This is what Lea’s dermatologist diagnosed):
• Papules and Pustules: Red, inflamed bumps, sometimes with a white head of pus.
• Nodules and Cysts: Deep, painful lumps under the skin. These are severe and can lead to scarring without treatment.
Treatment Options: What Worked for Lea?
1. Over-the-Counter Treatments
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces bacteria and inflammation. Lea used this as a spot treatment for smaller pimples.
• Salicylic Acid: Helped her exfoliate and prevent clogged pores.
• Adapalene Gel: A gentle retinoid that promoted cell turnover to keep new pimples from forming.
2. Prescription Medications
1. Antibiotics (Like Doxycycline):
• Lea’s doctor prescribed doxycycline, an oral antibiotic, to reduce the redness and swelling of her cystic acne.
• It worked quickly but was paired with topical treatments to avoid resistance.
2. Isotretinoin (Accutane):
• After months of trying other treatments, Lea switched to isotretinoin for her severe cystic acne.
• This powerful medication shrunk her oil glands and stopped acne from forming. While it came with side effects like dry lips and regular doctor check-ins, it gave Lea the clear skin she’d dreamed of.
3. Hormonal Treatments (For Women):
• Lea’s friend Mia found success with birth control pills, which regulated her hormones and reduced oil production.
Lea’s Secret to Success
Treating acne takes time and consistency. Lea stuck to her doctor’s advice and avoided common mistakes like picking at her skin or skipping treatments. She also:
• Washed her face twice a day with a gentle cleanser.
• Chose non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) makeup.
• Ate more fresh fruits and vegetables and less junk food.
The Takeaway
Like Lea, you don’t have to live with acne forever. Whether it’s finding the right over-the-counter product or starting a prescription medication like doxycycline or isotretinoin, there’s a solution for every type of breakout.
Be patient, take care of your skin, and know that clear skin is possible. Lea did it—and so can you!
This article is authored by Dr. Sarah Rosanel, a dedicated concierge medical doctor based in Miami, FL, specializing in personalized healthcare solutions tailored to the unique needs of her patients. Dr. Sarah Rosanel is also a mother of three: Ariel, Zev and Shirley.
Concierge Medicine & Cardiology. Functional Doctor/ Holistic Medicine
Book your appointment today by texting or calling (646) 467 4368. Miami, Florida. [email protected]
