Permanent treatment for acne?

Dylanw2u

Hello, my eldest son (17, 18 in a week) suffers from acne.

Now, while it isn't severe it often lasts for months on his face, he exercises and eats well but he cannot rid of it.

We've tried everything, acne products, antibiotics etc. Nothing works.


My son has become very self conscious over the years, and was bullied in secondary school up to third year and he isn't himself anymore. He is very depressed and has tried committing suicide in the past through overdosing. Now-a-days he always avoids going outside as he hates his appearance, he has even stopped coming down for dinner now (the only time we see him) and rarely eats as he says "if I eat less then I'll get less acne" and I'm so concerned for his health and well being. He is diagnosed with depression and is on medication for it, but I was wondering if there's treatment that permanently rids of acne. I've read accutane works wonders but also read it's been banned now.


I know my son most likely won't be allowed any severe forms of acne medication since it isn't as bad as some cases, however I'm very scared of him starving himself to the point of death (He's 5' 11 and weighs 7 stone) or committing suicide due to him becoming more upset over acne.


Does anyone think it would be possible for a dermatologist to prescribe a strong acne medication given the circumstances? I'm terrified of losing my son, and will do anything to make him happier.

Vorsprung

You don't mention whether your son has seen his GP recently but you should consider booking another appointment. Roaccutane is not banned but it is a medication that only consultants will initiate. There are issues around its prescription in those suffering with depression.