HealthLinksSC.com | 65 Americans spend over $3 billion a year on over-the-counter acne treatments. “Unfortunately,” said Michael Overcash, PA, of Trident Dermatology, “many over-the-counter acne products don’t work.” Overcash believes that, with the exception of benzoyl peroxide and adapalene, widely available acne products may do more harm than good because they can cause irritation and don’t address the root cause of acne. “Acne is not caused by dirt,” he explained. “If it were dirt, kindergarteners would have it,” he laughed. “Yet they have flawless skin. They smother mac 'n' cheese all over their faces and still have great skin,” he quipped. “I have parents come into my office, frustrated that their child isn’t washing their face enough, but sweat and dirt don’t cause acne – genes do.” Acne, explained Overcash, is caused by sex hormones linked to genetics; it can occur from puberty until menopause. “Genetics determine when, where and for how long a patient will have acne,” he said. While many believe that an imbalance in sex hormone levels is to blame, Overcash explained that most acne patients have normal hormone levels and an abnormal response to normal hormones. Overcash has had patients ages 10 to 60 complain about how acne makes them look and feel. His patients are embarrassed by their skin condition. Many will skip school or work due to a severe breakout. Overcash and the highly-skilled team at Trident Dermatology have seen remarkable results in patients of all ages using a variety of therapies to improve symptoms. “Retinoids are great for kids or adults. There are many different retinoids available over the counter, but the best retinoids are only available by prescription,” he said, citing Retin-A topical as a standout. Spironolactone is another treatment that Overcash has used with great success. “Spironolactone is really good at fighting acne. It’s not a hormone, not an antibiotic. It’s very safe and very effective,” he said. Prescription acne treatments such as Retin-A and spironolactone must be used long-term because symptoms may reappear when treatment is interrupted. “There is only one cure for acne,” said Overcash. “Isotretinoin, formerly known as accutane, is the only true cure.” Isotretinoin involves a six-month treatment and cures the problem for about 70% of acne sufferers who try it. “About 30% of people will need to take two courses of isotretinoin to cure their acne,” he explained. Isotretinoin requires a prescription, cannot be used during pregnancy and may affect cholesterol levels. Treatment, therefore, involves regular pregnancy and cholesterol testing and may have side effects ranging from chapped lips and hair loss to joint pain and headaches. As tempting as it may be to fall for the latest TikTok trend, treat acne at home or cover breakouts up with layers of makeup, the team at Trident Dermatology urges those suffering from acne to find a dermatologist to address their concerns. “Acne is nobody’s fault, but it’s also not something patients have to live with,” concluded Overcash. ADDRESSING ACNE: SYNCING UP SKIN WITH SUPER SOLUTIONS SPONSORED MEDICAL CONTENT To learn more about Trident Dermatology, visit tridentdermatology.net or call 843-797-3960. By Isabel Alvarez Arata
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