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 res pond as satisfactorily as expected. The main reason for the treatment failure is the poor patient compliance. In order to improve the patien t compliance the strategy for the treatment of acne has to be carefull y planned and includes the following: discussion before treatment; giv e clear instructions; explain the rhythm of improvement; explain the r ole of cosmetics; explain the role of sunbathing; explain the expected side effects. It has to be emphasized that all acne cases can be adeq uately controlled if the relationship between doctor and patient has b een built on trust and confidence, maximizing the patient compliance.