Once the acne is controlled, the patient has to be put on longterm maintenance. “This is done with the help of topical retinoids and the dermatologist may add a little bit of benzoyl peroxide if inflammation sets in again. But once the inflammation is gone, to prevent the acne from coming back, the patient needs to be put on long-term retinoids topically,” says Dr Ganjoo.
“We do an anti-acne treatment with IPL, or for a severe comedonal acne, we would do a carbon Q switch. If it is a pigmented skin, we do peels,” says Dr Shah. Post this, sunscreens have to be religiously applied, even moisturising the skin is important and healing post care creams should be recommended.
Acne in women could be a common occurrence, but acne vulgaris may not be! And when its PCOS, the manifestation calls for special attention. Its most crucial and creating awareness among patients is key.