Acne Treatment for Boys

When a boy reaches adolescence, he faces one of the banes of teenage years: acne. Your boy may be able to treat acne simply by using good hygiene and over-the-counter topical medications. But it's also important to know when a visit to the dermatologist is needed. Does this Spark an idea?

Acne Basics

One of the culprits responsible for acne is bacteria. But also contributing to acne in boys are dead skin cells that clog the hair follicles, as well as excessive sebum (oil) production caused by increased hormones common in the teenage years. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends exercising good daily hygiene by washing the areas affected with acne using a mild, oil-free cleanser. Using a washcloth or Buff Puff is not advised, as this can exacerbate oil production. Simply using the fingertips or hands is sufficient. Boys should also be encouraged to wash after they sweat profusely, such as after they participate in a sport or other activity of physical exertion.

There are numerous drugstore topical treatments for acne that can be effective. These typically contain mild ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid or lactic acid and can be helpful in addressing mild cases of acne. However, if mild acne doesn't resolve or if a boy's acne is more severe, there are prescription treatments that may be more helpful.

When Acne Won't Resolve

Your boy might balk at the suggestion of going to see a doctor for his acne. However, this is nothing to be ashamed of; the AAD estimates that more than 40 percent of adolescents have seen a dermatologist by the time they reach their mid-teen years.

A dermatologist can prescribe a stronger topical treatment, such as an antimicrobial to fight bacteria, or a retinoid, which helps dead skin cells shed. Oral antibiotics, a mainstay in treating acne, may also be prescribed. Erythromycin, tetracycline and its derivatives, doxycycline and minocycline, are popular drugs used to fight the bacteria that cause acne. These medications are usually taken for no more than six months.

There is some research to support the use of light and laser therapies to reduce acne. Blue light therapy is the most widely used treatment and also addresses acne by targeting the bacteria that causes it. However, these therapies are still considered experimental, so they may not be covered by your insurance plan. According to the AAD, a single treatment of blue light therapy can cost between $100 and $200, and around eight treatments are suggested. So while this method may be helpful, it can also be costly if you must pay out-of-pocket.

When Acne Is Severe

If your child has severe acne--nodules and cysts that form under the skin--this is a cause for concern. This form of acne can cause disfigurement and severe scarring that will later require cosmetic treatment. A dermatologist's assistance is required to treat cysts and nodules. While high dosages of oral antibiotics can be helpful, the AAD states that a round of isotretinoin (Accutane) is the most effective way to get rid of severe acne once and for all, as it targets all of the factors that cause acne (excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria).

Isotretinoin is taken orally once or twice daily for 16 to 20 weeks, after which severe acne resolves in most people, although a second round of treatment may be necessary. This medication comes with certain side effects, such as dry skin and eyes, which resolve after treatment is over. However, it can also have more profound side effects, such as joint pain, nausea, hearing loss, liver problems and depression and/or suicidal thoughts. The decision to have your boy use isotretinoin should be discussed with his dermatologist thoroughly, so you'll know all of the risks involved and if he is a good candidate for this type of therapy.