RARITAN, N.J., Aug. 27, 1998 -- Clear complexions achieved during the summer may mislead some acne patients into believing their problems are behind them. But, according to some dermatologists, post-summer acne breakout is a common and treatable problem for patients in their teens through forties. "Sun, in small doses, can improve acne conditions ... temporarily," explains Katie Rodan, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Stanford University. "When exposed to sunlight, skin tends to swell and exfoliate, and redness will reduce. In the fall, however, acne flares up as the skin begins to shed dry and dead cells caused by sun exposure."

Fall acne flare-ups are greatly influenced by mood swings, low spirits, and stress, according to Dr. Rodan. While spirits tend to be carefree and relaxed during summer, the start of fall is sometimes met with feelings of depression and increased stress or anxiety due to the start of school, return to full-time work and other stressful situations. "Moods influence hormones and trigger an increase in secretions of cortisol (a hormone), which can result in an increased amount of acne," she notes.

"Acne is a multi-factorial problem," says Kathy Fields, M.D., a clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center. "It's a complex problem that unfortunately many people try to treat with over-the-counter products that offer a quick fix and no long-term prevention."

One of the prescription tools being used by dermatologists to combat acne is RETIN-A(R) MICRO(TM) (tretinoin gel) microsphere, 0.1%, a form of the popular acne treatment RETIN-A(R) (tretinoin). The medication uses a technologically-advanced Microsponge(R) system designed to minimize the irritation commonly experienced with the highest strength of RETIN-A.

"The advantage to acne patients, particularly those with sensitive skin, is that they get a proven effective tretinoin therapy with a favorable irritation profile," says Dr. Fields. "Acne sufferers using RETIN-A MICRO should not experience the same level of skin reactions that have been seen with the highest strength of RETIN-A in the past. An additional benefit is that it can be applied immediately after patients wash their face, unlike the 20-30 minute waiting period for RETIN-A."

In clinical studies, the RETIN-A MICRO irritation profile was found to be similar to a mild, local irritant. The most common adverse reactions to RETIN-A MICRO were limited to mild or moderate irritation of the skin. Severe cutaneous irritation occurred infrequently. Six percent of patients discontiued due to irritation. As with all topical retinoids, the skin of certain individuals may become excessively dry, red, swollen, or blistered. Information about RETIN-A MICRO, including full U.S. prescribing information, is available at http://www.womenintheknow.com. To find out about birth control pills and acne, visit http://www.ortho-mcneill.com.