Why and when the treatment of acne fails. What to do.

The majority of acne patients show a good response to the proper acne treatment. However, a small percentage not exceeding 10-15% do not respond as satisfactorily as expected. The main reason for the treatment failure is the poor patient compliance. In order to improve the patient compliance the strategy for the treatment of acne has to be carefully planned and includes the following: discussion before treatment; give clear instructions; explain the rhythm of improvement; explain the role of cosmetics; explain the role of sunbathing; explain the expected side effects. It has to be emphasized that all acne cases can be adequately controlled if the relationship between doctor and patient has been built on trust and confidence, maximizing the patient compliance.