Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting people of all ages. This is where a reliable compounding pharmacy can offer a personalized, effective solution to acne treatment. Whether it’s occasional breakouts or chronic acne, an acne eruption can significantly impact one’s self-esteem and confidence. Traditional acne treatments (like over-the-counter creams and oral medications) are often the first line of defense, but they don’t always work for everyone.
A Personalized Approach to Treating Acne From a Compounding Pharmacy
As a compounding pharmacy, we work with healthcare providers to create custom treatments that target the specific needs of each individual patient. In this blog we’ll discuss how compounded medications can better manage acne, and provide tailored solutions for the best results.
Why Acne Treatment Needs Personalization
Acne is caused by various factors including clogged pores, excess oil production, bacteria and inflammation. The underlying causes of acne can vary greatly from person to person. For some, hormonal fluctuations play a significant role, while for others, diet, stress, or even medications may be contributing factors. Because of this variability, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work.
Over-the-counter acne treatments, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, are widely available—however, they just don’t work for everyone. Additionally, many of these treatments can cause skin irritation or dryness. While often of greater strength, prescription medications may also come with side effects, so this is where customized acne treatments from a compounding pharmacy can make a real difference. Your compounding pharmacy can address the root cause of acne while minimizing unwanted side effects.
Topical Compounded Treatments for Acne
One of the main advantages of compounding pharmacies is the ability to create personalized topical treatments that are tailored to a patient’s unique skin type. Below are some of the most common compounded acne treatments.
Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO)
Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known acne treatment that works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. It’s available in various strengths, but its potency can sometimes cause skin irritation, redness and dryness.
At a compounding pharmacy we can adjust the concentration of benzoyl peroxide to create a formulation that’s more suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide creams or gels can be combined with other ingredients like hydrating agents to reduce dryness and irritation, providing an effective yet gentle acne treatment.
Clindamycin and Erythromycin
For patients with inflammatory acne or cystic acne, topical antibiotics like clindamycin or erythromycin may be prescribed to reduce bacterial growth and inflammation. These antibiotics are often combined with other ingredients in compounded formulations to target acne without over-drying the skin.
In a compounded treatment, clindamycin or erythromycin can be combined with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids for enhanced efficacy. By combining different agents, a compounding pharmacy can create a solution that treats both the bacterial infection and the excess oil that leads to acne formation.
Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene)
Retinoids are powerful acne treatments that help increase skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and promoting the healing of existing acne. Tretinoin (the prescription form of retinoic acid) and adapalene are commonly used retinoids for acne treatment.
While effective, retinoids can be irritating, especially for those with sensitive skin. Compounding pharmacies can create lower concentrations of retinoids, or mix them with soothing agents like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to reduce irritation while maintaining efficacy.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a popular over-the-counter treatment that works by exfoliating the skin and helping clean out pores. It’s often used for mild to moderate acne, and is effective in the treatment of blackheads and whiteheads. Compounding pharmacies can create custom formulations of salicylic acid with varying concentrations, allowing for more effective treatments for different skin types and acne severities.
Salicylic acid can also be combined with other compounds like glycolic acid to enhance exfoliation and improve skin texture, making it suitable for patients who want to target acne as well as skin texture issues.
Oral Compounded Treatments for Acne
While topical treatments are often the first line of defense, oral medications may be necessary for more severe cases of acne. A compounding pharmacy can also create custom oral medications to address acne from the inside out.
Spironolactone
Spironolactone is a medication that’s commonly used to treat acne, especially in women who have hormonal acne (related to hormonal fluctuations such as during menstruation or pregnancy). It works by blocking the effects of androgens, the hormones that can trigger excess oil production.
Compounding pharmacies can offer customized doses of spironolactone, making it easier for patients to find the right dose for their specific needs. Spironolactone can also be combined with other medications (such as oral antibiotics) in a compounded formulation to enhance its acne-fighting effects.
Consulting a Compounding Pharmacist
If you’re struggling with acne and traditional treatments haven’t worked, consulting with a compounding pharmacist can help you find a solution that works best for your skin. We collaborate with dermatologists and other healthcare providers to create personalized acne treatments that target the underlying causes of your acne. For added convenience, you can also schedule a telehealth consultation to discuss your treatment options from the comfort of your home.
Effective Acne Treatments in Johns Creek, GA
If you’re interested in learning more about how compounded medications can help with acne, speak with your healthcare provider or a compounding pharmacist to explore the possibilities. With the right treatment plan, acne can be managed more effectively, restoring both your skin and your confidence. Call Eli Pharmacy at (678) 835-9997 or request a telehealth consultation today.
