In public, I am treated with hostility, and my self-esteem is beginning to falter. I consider myself otherwise a very attractive, intelligent, and worthwhile young woman, but I feel that I have no other options. If you can suggest any other available treatments, I would be happy. A. Acne is an extremely common disorder of teenagers and young adults. It is usually self-limited and resolves with age.
Hormones certainly play a role as does bacteria and possibly yeast.
Friction and trauma such as headbands or helmet chinstraps can exacerbate acne as can certain oily make-ups and medications such as steroids. Avoid oily makeup. Oral antibiotics such as Minocin or Erythromycin can be very effective. Topical antibiotics, Reitan A and benzoyl peroxide can also be helpful. For more severe cases of nodulocystic acne, Accutane may be used, which is very potent and potentially toxic.