Health

Treatment Methods For Severe Acne

Published

5 years ago

October 27, 2020

Acne, a nuisance causing skin condition, not only leaves you with blemished skin but also causes an emotional toll. Patients with severe acne experience frequent skin breakouts that affect different parts of the body, such as the face, back, and neck. They are caused by hormonal changes or genetic makeup.

In extreme cases, these breakouts penetrate deeper into the skin and are referred to as cysts or nodules. This form of acne is typically more painful, and even when it clears up, unsightly scars are often left behind. Dealing with severe acne can be overwhelming and is known to have a negative effect on self-esteem. However, there are a few proven ways through which you can manage the breakouts.

Treatment Options

Are you struggling with severe acne? Below are some recommended treatment options:

Dietary Changes

Your diet can have a direct impact on your susceptibility to severe acne. The food you consume affects the functioning of various body organs, including the skin. When the skin fails to function normally, it may produce excess oil, known as sebum, that clogs the pores. In turn, clogged pores are more likely to become infected with bacteria, which leads to acne breakouts. Therefore, to prevent such breakouts, you can make some dietary changes, which include;

• Going on a low-carb diet

• Hydrating

• Ditching dairy products

• Adding lots of green leafy vegetables into your diet

Effective Skincare

It is advisable to adopt a healthy skincare routine to reduce the frequency and severity of acne breakouts. A healthy skincare routine helps maintain its proper functioning giving it a smooth, youthful, and glowing look. If you are not sure of the skincare routine to adopt, here is a summary:

• Wash your face at least twice a day using a mild soap or a gentle cleanser and warm water.

• Shower after any strenuous activity to remove excess sweat and dirt.

• Apply sunscreen before going outdoors under the scorching sun.

• Avoid using harsh skincare products.

• For dry skin, apply a moisturizer before going to bed.

• Avoid touching your face regularly to reduce contamination.

• Seek help from a qualified dermatologist.

• Exfoliate regularly.

Lifestyle Changes

Your lifestyle can also contribute to regular breakouts. How? The acne on your skin may be a sign of an underlying issue. Your physical, mental, and emotional well-being all affect the general functioning of your body. Therefore, your skin’s health calls for holistic treatment. You should start by addressing any issue concerning the functioning of your body. Listed below are some lifestyle changes you can adopt:

• Exercise regularly to increase blood flow throughout your body. This helps in the elimination of oils and other toxic substances that may trigger acne breakouts.

• Get enough sleep to control your cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone related to stress, which is not good for your skin.

• Avoid stress. Though it’s hard to do away with stress completely, it is vital to learn how to manage it. Elevated stress triggers the production of glucocorticoid, which can affect the structure and functioning of the skin.

• Hydrate: Replace alcohol and carbonated drinks with water. Water helps your body flush out toxins that may affect the health of your skin.

Medications

If none of the above treatment options seems to work for you, your doctor may recommend some medications. The medication will typically be either topical creams/lotions or pills.

They include:

• Antibiotics: These work by killing excess bacteria on the skin, reducing skin reddening and inflammation. Antibiotics may be taken orally or used as topical ointments.

• Retinoids: Also called vitamin A derivatives, retinoids work by affecting how your skin grows and sheds.

• Oral contraceptives: These are used on women, and they reduce severe acne outbreaks by counteracting the hormonal effects of periods.

• Other medications used to treat severe acne include dapsone, azelaic acid, and spironolactone.

Conclusion

Severe acne can affect you mentally, physically, and emotionally. If you have been struggling with this condition, you can adopt the treatment methods above to reduce the impact of severe acne breakouts.

Health

Finding Your Best Fit: Are GLP-1 Medications Right for Your Weight Loss Journey?

Published

1 week ago

July 2, 2025

Michelle Langton

Over the past few years, a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists has been gaining attention, not only for treating type 2 diabetes but also in the field of weight management.

With obesity affecting “at least one in five adults (20%) in each U.S. state,” according to the CDC, many individuals are seeking effective solutions that can complement diet and exercise. Two of the most discussed options are GLP-1 injections for weight loss and GLP-1/GIP for weight loss, both of which have shown promising results.

However, deciding if these medications are right for you isn’t a one-size-fits-all process; it’s essential to determine if GLP-1s are right for you to get you to be your best self in 2025. SimpleFixRx — a healthcare service dedicated to personalized options — can help you explore GLP-1s therapy as part of your 2025 broader health plan.

Understanding GLP-1 receptor agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists were initially designed to help regulate blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes by mimicking a hormone that controls insulin secretion, slows digestion, and reduces appetite. The recent spotlight on GLP-1 injectors for weight loss and GLP-1/ GIP for weight loss stems from studies showing that these medications can help many people achieve significant, sustained weight loss — often in the 10-15 percent range or more of their body weight — when paired with healthier eating habits and increased physical activity.

Key benefits:

Enhanced blood sugar control: For individuals with type 2 diabetes, these medications can significantly lower hemoglobin A1C levels.

Appetite regulation: By slowing gastric emptying and impacting appetite signals, GLP-1s can help reduce unhealthy food cravings.

Possible cardiovascular benefits: Some research suggests that certain GLP-1s may offer heart-protective effects, reducing the risk of cardiac events.

Who can benefit from GLP-1?

GLP-1 receptor agonists have emerged as a promising option for individuals facing various metabolic and weight-related challenges. Whether you’re dealing with type 2 diabetes or seeking a meaningful way to jump-start weight loss, therapies like GLP-1/ GIP for weight loss and GLP-1 injections for weight loss could help bridge the gap where traditional diet and exercise might fall short.

Individuals with type 2 diabetes

GLP-1s remain a staple in controlling high blood sugar for patients who’ve struggled with traditional oral medications or lifestyle measures alone. If you have type 2 diabetes, speak with your healthcare provider to see if adding a GLP-1 might improve your overall management plan.

Those with obesity or weight-related health concerns

If your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or above — or you’re overweight (BMI 25–29.9) and have additional complications like prediabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol — GLP-1s might be a strong consideration. The appetite-suppressing effects often help jump-start weight loss.

People seeking a catalyst for lifestyle changes

Even if you haven’t succeeded with traditional diets or exercise routines, medications such as GLP-1/ GIP for weight loss or GLP-1 injections for weight loss may help you regain momentum. Still, a commitment to long-term lifestyle improvements — such as more balanced eating and regular physical activity — is vital to achieving the best results.

Patients with hard-to-control metabolic factors

Some people face genetic or metabolic hurdles that make weight management exceptionally challenging. GLP-1s can help bridge that gap, providing extra support where willpower and standard lifestyle interventions might not suffice on their own.

By combining medical guidance, like that from the experts of SimpleFixRx, with regular follow-ups and a commitment to healthier habits, eligible patients may find these therapies to be a game-changer in achieving sustainable weight management and better overall health.

GLP Squared

Some compound pharmacies are now combining options for GLP medications, allowing for the microdosing of a combination of GLP and GLP1/GIP. Microdosing has numerous benefits for patients, including reduced nausea, a more steady release of medication, and decreased inflammation, among others. SimpleFix does offer GLP squared, and it is less expensive than GLP1/ GIP alone.

The SimpleFixRx approach

SimpleFixRx specializes in providing personalized healthcare solutions, including access to GLP-1 therapies, through a convenient, patient-centered platform. Their team of licensed healthcare providers works closely with patients to:

Assess eligibility: SimpleFixRx professionals review each patient’s medical history, lifestyle habits, and specific health goals to determine if GLP-1 therapy is appropriate.

Offer comprehensive care plans: Beyond prescribing medications, SimpleFixRx aims to create a holistic approach that includes nutritional guidance and exercise plans, ensuring GLP-1 therapy is supported by healthier daily habits.

Monitor progress: Through regular follow-up appointments, patients can collaborate with the SimpleFixRx team to fine-tune their regimen and address any side effects or emerging concerns.

Potential side effects and considerations

While GLP-1s offer noteworthy benefits, they aren’t free of potential drawbacks. The most frequently reported side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and, in some cases, vomiting — especially when first beginning treatment — but these often ease as your body adjusts. Other, more serious risks include pancreatitis or gallbladder issues, though these are generally less common.

Your medical history and personal goals should guide any decision to start GLP-1 therapy. Certain gastrointestinal or thyroid conditions, for instance, could make these medications less suitable. Women who are or might become pregnant also need specialized guidance, as safety data for pregnancy remains limited.

Making the decision with SimpleFixRx

Dr. Garrett H. Garner, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., a board-certified OB/GYN with over two decades of experience in North Texas, highlights the importance of individualized care. “We take the time to review each patient’s medical history, dietary habits, and long-term health objectives. Medications like GLP-1/ GIP or GLP-1 can be game-changers — but they work best within a broader strategy that includes nutrition, exercise, and regular follow-up.”

Before you opt for any GLP-1 medication, consider asking your healthcare provider or a service like SimpleFixRx these five questions:

“Am I a good candidate for GLP-1s based on my health profile?”
“How will this therapy interact with other treatments or conditions I have?”
“What lifestyle changes, if any, should I implement to maximize the benefits?”
“Which medication — GLP-1/ GIP vs. GLP-1 — would best suit my needs?”
“How often should I schedule follow-up appointments to assess progress and adjust my treatment plan?”

By partnering with a dedicated healthcare service like SimpleFixRx, you can gain access to expert guidance, personalized care plans, and ongoing support — all crucial components to long-term success.

These therapies are tools, not magic solutions, as sustainable progress often hinges on a combination of effective medication, mindful eating, regular physical activity, and consistent medical oversight. However, with the proper support structure and commitment, GLP-1 medications can be a transformative part of your journey toward better health.