PCOS and Acne Treatments

Acne is a symptom of PCOS that can really put a dent in your self esteem. As with most symptoms of PCOS, the problem lessens with the treatment of the syndrome as a whole, but while you are being treated whether through medical or natural remedies there are some methods you can use to alleviate your acne.

Acne treatments have come a long way over the years. Once limited to a few options that were often ineffective, acne sufferers now have numerous choices. Some of these can be obtained from the family doctor, some require a dermatologist’s expertise, and some can be purchased at your local store or health shop. Here are six of the most popular acne treatments available:

Retin-A

Those who primarily suffer from persistent blackheads and whiteheads can often benefit from Retin-A. Retin-A is derived from Vitamin A and promotes the shedding of material that clogs pores and causes blackheads and whiteheads.

Retin-A often causes irritated and flaky skin, and it takes several weeks before patients can see a difference. Those using the drug are advised to use a moisturizer regularly and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Antibiotics

Some doctors and dermatologists begin treating acne with antibiotics. These are either taken orally or applied topically. The antibiotics work by decreasing the number of acne-causing bacteria in the skin and reducing the amount of fatty acids in the sebum.

The downside to antibiotics is that they can also kill the good bacteria that our bodies need to stay healthy. They are also associated with the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These problems are less prevalent with topical antibiotics than with oral ones.

Photodynamic Therapy

One of the newer techniques in acne treatment is photodynamic therapy, also known as blue light therapy. Previously used to treat cancer and other diseases and ailments, it has been found to be an effective alternative to systemic antibiotics in the treatment of moderate to severe acne.

Photodynamic therapy is conducted as a series of three to five treatments, with two to four weeks between treatments. It is not usually covered by medical insurance.

Tea Tree Oil

One of the most effective home remedies for acne is tea tree oil. It is used by diluting and dabbing it directly onto acne lesions. Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties, and that is thought to be the reason why it is so effective against acne.

Garlic

Garlic is another natural antibiotic, and it can be used in a variety of ways against acne. You can cleanse the skin with a solution of one part garlic juice to three parts water, rub raw garlic on lesions, or take it internally. The key is to use fresh garlic, because it loses its effectiveness a short time after it is skinned. Of course, the smell can be difficult to live with!

Vitamins

Vitamins are good for overall health, and they can be a powerful weapon in the fight against acne. B Vitamins are especially beneficial, because they fight acne in several different ways, along with vitamins A, C, E, and the minerals chromium and zinc. All these vitamins and minerals are valuable for dealing with your PCOS as a whole. For example, chromium helps to regulate your blood sugar levels and reduce your sugar cravings.

All there are vitamins available in supplements you can buy from health food stores, but the best way to get these vitamins is to include them in your diet.

There are more options for acne sufferers than ever before. Whether you prefer traditional treatments, non-drug therapy or natural remedies, acne can be treated effectively while dealing with your PCOS as a whole.

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