Accutane & Absorica (Isotretinoin)

Accutane is the most aggressive treatment in the fight against chronic and severe acne. It is extremely effective and often can lead to a permanent reduction or complete resolution of acne. Dr. Hazany tends to use this only as a last resort because its potential side effects necessitate careful monitoring. Dr. Hazany emphasizes that side effects can be avoided if used properly and dosed by an expert.

Antibiotics

Doxycycline and minocycline are the most common antibiotics used to treat acne and rosacea. They are anti-inflammatory and serve to reduce the red bumps that are common with pustular acne types. Dr. Hazany does not believe in long-term use of antibiotics as they have many side effects, including gastrointestinal upset, sun sensitivity, and pigmentary disorders, just to name a few. Dr. Hazany prefers to limit the use of antibiotics and phase them out as the treatment plan progresses.

Hormonal Modulation

Hormonal modulation drugs can be an effective way to reduce hormone induced acne. It is very important to be treated by a board-certified dermatologist familiar with hormonal modulation as some of these medicines can cause heart complications, blood clot formation, and other dangerous side effects. If handled by an expert, this can be a very safe and effective way to treat hormonal acne.

Topical Medication

Dr. Hazany uses a specialty compounding pharmacy to customize acne creams specific to each of his patients' exact skin type, texture, oil level, and acne severity. This bespoke approach is more effective because standard one-type-fits-all topical medications can be unnecessarily drying (e.g., Retin-A, Tazorac, Differrin, Epiduo). Dr. Hazany’s topical medication is mixed with a special formulation that delivers an elegant and luxurious cream tailored for your unique skin care needs.

Natural Supplements

Acne breakouts occur when pores become clogged by dead skin cells, excess oil, and bacteria. This triggers a local inflammatory response, which is usually the body’s natural defense mechanism for clearing foreign invaders. In this case, however, the result is unsightly redness and swelling.

How, then, do we calm the body’s overzealous inflammatory response? One natural herb we recommend to patients is turmeric, which contains a compound called circumin. Scientists have found that circumin not only reduces inflammation but is also particularly effective against the bacterium scientifically known as Propionibacterium acnes - or colloquially, “acne”. 

In addition, we recommend that patients take zinc gluconate as well as vitamins A and C. Like turmeric, zinc gluconate is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that will kills acne-causing bacteria and slows your skin's oil production. Vitamin A, or retinol, is also particularly effective in inhibiting oil production and reducing the body's systemic inflammatory response, adding to the synergistic effects of turmeric and zinc gluconate. Lastly, vitamin C has been shown to be highly effective for stimulating collagen production, a much needed boost to rejuvenate the skin after a harsh acne breakout.

There are plenty of these natural supplements and vitamins available over the counter. We recommend taking it regularly in conjunction with a no-dairy, high protein diet to prevent acne breakouts and subsequently acne scarring. Have confidence knowing that these are all natural ingredients.

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