LOOKING AFTER YOUR SKIN

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. It causes spots and pimples, such as whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and pustules, mainly on the face, neck, back, and chest. Most people experience acne at some point in their lives. However, it’s most common during puberty, when changes in hormone levels trigger it. Around 85% of teenagers experience the skin condition during adolescence.

Sebum is the leading cause of acne. This naturally occurring oily substance prevents the skin from drying out. However, when the body produces too much, it mixes with dead skin cells, resulting in a plug. These plugs block the skin’s hair follicles, creating black or whiteheads.

Blackheads form when the follicles are open, and whiteheads form when they are closed. If the plugged follicle is contaminated with bacteria from living skin, it can become infected. This results in the formation of small red bumps called papules, pus-filled pustules, and hard lumps called nodules or cysts, which carry the greatest risk of scarring.

Acne is most prevalent among pubescent teenagers, whose hormones are continually in flux. These fluctuations cause the overproduction of sebum, which triggers the condition. Other causes of hormonal fluctuations leading to acne include menstruation and pregnancy. Periods of stress can also trigger the condition.

It’s also thought that acne runs in families. So, if one or both of your parents had acne, you’re more likely to experience it.

Your pharmacist may be able to help with treatments for mild acne. These treatments can take several months to work but are usually very effective. Resisting the temptation to pick or squeeze spots will also help to prevent permanent scarring.

It’s important to remember that acne is not caused by sexual activity, poor hygiene, being dirty or a poor diet.

SKINOREN CREAM

Skinoren 20% 30g Cream contains the active ingredient, Azelaic acid. It’s an opaque white cream commonly used to treat acne. Skinoren attacks the bacteria that play a significant role in causing the condition. It also reduces the growth of hard outermost skin cells that block the pores, causing blackheads and whiteheads. You can read the product information leaflet here.

WHAT IS SKINOREN CREAM AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Skinoren cream is applied directly to the skin to treat acne. It contains naturally occurring Azelaic acid, which kills the acne-causing bacteria that block the pores and treats inflammatory lesions. It also reduces the growth of acne-relevant skin cells and promotes cell renewal. Additionally, Skinoren can be used to treat rosacea.

HOW DO I USE SKINOREN CREAM?

Users apply Skinoren to the affected area twice daily, in the morning and evening. First, clean the skin and pat it dry. Don’t be tempted to use your cream more than twice a day, as this could irritate the skin. Then, gently rub Skinoren into the skin until it’s fully absorbed.

If your skin is sensitive, you may be directed to use Skinoren once a day, in the evening, for a week before applying twice daily.

Skinoren cream comes in a tube, making it easy to apply with fingers. It’s also an effective alternative to oral antibiotics for people who can’t or don’t wish to use them. Apply carefully to the face, avoiding contact with the eyes and mouth. Avoid swimming, showering or bathing after using your cream, as you could reduce its effectiveness.

It may take up to four weeks before you can see the cream working. If necessary, you can use Skinoren continuously for up to a year. You should use the cream regularly for best results. If your acne hasn’t responded after a month of treatment, or your rosacea hasn’t responded after two months, talk to your doctor, as Skinoren may not be your best option.

Skinoren cream is not suitable for use by children under 12.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

All medicines have side effects. Skinoren can cause side effects, though not everybody using the treatment will experience them.

Common side effects include itching or burning where the cream is applied, along with redness, drying, and scaling. These are most common at the start of treatment. Less commonly, users have reported skin reactions or allergies. Skin reactions generally improve as the treatment continues.

IS SKINOREN SUITABLE FOR ME?

In some situations, this treatment is not recommended or should be used with caution. If you’re considering using Skinoren cream for your acne, you must complete the medical questionnaire carefully.

Skinoren cream isn’t usually used alongside other acne treatments. So, if Skinoren cream doesn’t work for you, discuss different treatment options with your doctor. You’ll need to tell your doctor if you’re taking any other medicines, either over the counter or on prescription.

The treatment is not suitable if you’re allergic to Azelaic acid or any of the other ingredients in Skinoren.

AVAILABILITY

Select your preferred pharmacy to visit their page and enquire about this service. Or pop into your local pharmacy when it suits you.