About Retinoid Acne Treatments

Acne occurs when hair follicles clog with dead skin cells, oil and bacteria, causing an infection in the follicle. Pustules may form with a visible pus pocket just below the skin's surface or the infected follicle may result in a deeper, more painful acne cyst or nodule. Retinoid, commonly used in the treatment of acne, comes in both a topical solution and an oral medication.

Topical Retinoid

Derived from Vitamin A, topical retinoid comes in a cream, a gel or a lotion base and works by reducing the incidence of clogged pores. Retinol, a synthesized form of retinoid is available in many over-the-counter acne formulations, often combined with benzoyl peroxide. Stronger topical retinoid concentrations are available by prescription.

Application

The acne sufferer applies the topical retinoid product to his face approximately 30 minutes after washing, commonly before going to bed. Because retinoid may cause sun sensitivity, the application of a sunscreen may be beneficial.

Oral Retinoid

Oral retinoid is highly effective in treating moderate to severe acne and it works by restricting the secretion of sebum and pore-clogging oil, and by reducing inflammation and localized infection. Oral retinoid medication is only available by prescription and it may be even more effective when combined with topical retinoid cream.

Warning

Before prescribing oral retinoid medication, a physician may require a pregnancy test and at least one month of reliable birth control for women seeking the medication. Because oral retinoid may cause spontaneous abortion or severe birth defects, its use is highly regulated.

Additional Side Effects

Topical retinoid formulations may irritate the skin, causing it to dry, flake or become red and irritated. In addition to the high risk associated with taking oral retinoid during pregnancy, both topical and oral forms may cause vision problems, hepatitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

References

• MayoClinic.com -- Intro
• Medscape.com
• Health -- MSN