Avoid the Sun When Taking This Acne Drug

     Acne is a condition of the skin that can affect persons at any age, although teenagers and women may be more likely to experience acne due to hormonal fluctuations. Acne may appear as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Areas of the skin with a large amount of oil glands, such as the face, chest, and back, are more susceptible to the occurrence of acne. Acne may occur in response to the overproduction of oil, bacteria buildup, or shedding of skin cells.

     A variety of treatment options are available for the varying levels of severity. Different treatments may work to decrease the production of oil, increase cell turnover, decrease inflammation, or to fight bacteria. Treatments available over-the-counter for mild acne include topical products containing the active ingredients benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, and salicylic acid. Topical treatments available with a prescription include tretinoin (Retin-A) and adapalene (Differin). Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a medication available to treat severe acne. Sunlight and artificial UV ray exposure should be avoided during treatment with this medication, as it may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and increase the risk of sunburn. This medication also may cause severe birth defects, and therefore must not be taken by women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant.