Overview
While most people experience acne in some form or another throughout their lives, severe acne can lead to permanent disfiguration, social and emotional problems and employment limitations. Severe acne appears on the face and other body parts and typically develops inflammation, deep-pitted scars and abscesses, report doctors at the American Academy of Dermatologists. Treatment usually requires medical interventions.
Medication
Since bacterial infection often causes severe acne flare-ups, antibiotics are a common treatment used to treat the disease. Some patients develop a tolerance to antibiotics and require additional treatment with a different round of antibiotics in addition to isotretinoin, a synthetic retinoid available in pill form. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help to reduce the swelling caused by certain types of severe acne. Oral contraceptives work successfully for many women with severe acne.
Time Frame
Patients are encouraged to maintain home care when being treated for severe acne that includes regular washing, use of topical creams and refraining from picking the acne bumps. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatologists report that treatment for severe acne can take years before any results are seen. Patients may have to undergo a variety of treatments spanning several years.
Options
Patients who do not respond to medication may have to undergo surgery to drain the cysts that develop from severe acne. A physician should perform draining to avoid infection that can worsen the acne and lead to permanent scarring. Cysts that are in danger of erupting often are treated with injections of a diluted corticosteroid medication. The injection can prevent permanent scarring. It works by melting the pimple and promoting quicker healing.
Effects
Severe acne scars often are treated with surgery to cut out the damaged skin and sew it back together or cover it with new skin. Chemical peels and laser resurfacing also can be useful to reveal healthy underlying skin when acne scars appear. Pitted acne scars can be filled with collagen or fat to even out the top layer of skin.
Side Effects
While isotretinoin is one of the most effective medications for treating severe acne, it carries a slew of dangerous side effects. Pregnant women should not take the medication because it can cause serious birth defects. Other side effects include headaches, bone or joint pain, vomiting, depression and thinning hair. Cosmetic procedures such as dermabrasion and chemical peels can leave skin red and raw. Contraceptives can cause tender breasts and an increased risk for breast cancer.
