Back Pimples

Hi,

Just need help with bad back acne problem. I've been seeing my dermatologist for a couple years now. I see her about twice a year but all she tells me is that it will go away when I get older and just not do anything. She gave me some medication but it doesn't really change anything at all. I'm kind of sick of just sitting here and let this acne overtake my whole back. I have a lot of pimple scars and I still get back pimples. It hurts most of the time. When I carry my bag I can feel it rub against it and hurts. Anyone else experience this?

Anyone know any home remedies? Should I switch dermatologists? It's free health care so it always takes a while for me to see her, and if I switch it would probably take even longer. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thank you for your time!

[loiloi]

Hi.
You don't say specifically which medication she gave you. It was probably a course of oral antibiotics. These must be taken for at least 8-12 weeks before a clinical improvement is seen, so don't give up too soon. If skin clearance is not achieved after this time, it is prudent to switch to another type of antibiotic. There are many to which acne responds: Erythromycin, oxytetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, lymecycline.
Your dermatologist may also prescribe a topical retinoid such as Differin (adapalene) or Retin-a (tretinoin).
If standard treatments result in failure or relapse, you may be a candidate for oral Isotretinoin (formerly Accutane). This is the strongest acne treatment available and virtually always results in excellent skin clearance.
There is a lack of medical evidence that home remedies are effective against acne. Switch to a more sympathetic dermatologist; no one needs to suffer with acne.
Best Wishes, Eloise.