Acne is a chronic or acute inflammatory process. Clinically it is composed of comedones, papillose, pustules, cysts and scars. These lesions commonly appear on the face but they can also appear on the neck, chest, back and upper arms. Acne can be embarrassing to the sufferer and cause significant misery and anxiety.

Acne develops when the pores in the skin become blocked by oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. Sebum, which travels up the hair follicle, becomes trapped causing the formation of a blackhead. Bacteria, that is present on the skin, try to break down the trapped sebum which results in further inflammation. White blood cells are sent to the area to attack the bacteria and, as a result, pus is formed.

What Causes Acne?

Acne can develop in response to hormonal imbalances within the body. Puberty, pregnancy, menopause, stress, are just a few experiences which can bring on or exacerbate acne.

Acne can also develop as a result of exposure to certain chemicals, sprays or medicines. The use of cosmetics, oil-based hair products and lotions block the oil glands and worsen acne.

Acne Treatments

Our laboratory can produce effective over the counter preparations which can kill the bacteria responsible for acne, dissolve the sebum plug, digest damaged collagen and smooth away acne scars. Below is a list of common ingredients used by our compounding specialists to formulate face creams to help fight acne.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) -Niacinamide is an effective drug in the treatment of mind to moderate inflammatory acne. It is a potent anti-inflammatory which was not associated with bacterial resistance like clindamycin and erythromycin. Nicacinamide has also been shown to reduce the amount of sebum present on the skin. Tolerability is excellent. Furthermore, topical niacin amide lacks photo allergic or phytotoxic potential and so can be used safely in the summertime.

Glycolic Acid – The mechanism of glycolic acid in acne therapy is due to dissolving the sebum plug. At higher concentrations, glycolic acid has profound effects of the skin. It promotes increased collagen synthesis. It has depigmentary effects, which evens out the skin tome. Glycolic acid is also a keratolytic, which means it gently removes the top layer of the skin, exposing the new skin underneath. This makes the skin look brighter and less shallow. It also reduces follicular pores and makes the skin smoother.

Lipoic Acid – activates a factor in the body known as AP-1, which produces enzymes that digest damaged collagen and helps erase acne scars in addition to its anti-inflammatory effect.

Azelaic acid – has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and exfoliating properties. It is used for the treatment of severe inflammatory acne and rosacea. Azelaic acid reduces the formation of blackheads (comedones) and spots. It also kills the bacteria associated with acne. Since azelaic acid inhibits melanin synthesis, it is also effective against hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Salicylic acid – is an effective keratolytic and also has anti-bacterial properties.

We also produce a prescription range of creams for more resistant cases of acne. These contain a combination of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, retinoids and antiandrogens.

At Ramadan Pharmacy our compounding specialists can compound any product that has been prescribed for you to suit your individual needs. Compounding is about finding alternatives where limitations would otherwise exist.

Contact us for more details or to book a free consultation.