Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS
June is National Acne Awareness Month. Let’s have a little fun. Although not from a scientific journal, I came across this article discussing some of the home remedies that patients have tried to improve their acne. I am positive that we have not only heard everything on this list, but probably many more in the clinical setting. From toothpaste to green tea to eggs, patients are willing to try just about anything for an easy acne solution. This quick read reminds us of the potential adverse reactions that patients can cause on their skin by using random treatments that they have found on social media. Tik Tok and Instagram seem to be the prominent influencers of non-prescription and non-traditional at-home acne remedies, so be sure to ask.
Most of us ask patients about their skincare routines, but it may be worth asking about anything they may be doing in efforts to “treat” their acne. We can advise about potentially damaging practices and assure them that our prescribed regimens will provide benefits within a few weeks. It’s reassuring for patients to learn about the results of clinical studies with prescription acne medications and helps us manage expectations in between myth busting social media trends. What’s the Strangest Thing your patients have used to treat their acne?
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Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHS, is Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Texas Southwestern, Medical Center PA Program, Dallas, TX. She is a member of the DEF Advisory Council.