Acne scarring is best prevented by early, effective treatment that controls inflammation. Topical agents, oral medications, and intralesional steroid injections reduce scarring risk; drainage or excision should be done only by clinicians.
Learn practical, up-to-date steps to recognize, manage, and seek care for acne - from gentle home routines and effective OTC options to when to see a clinician for prescription treatments.
Acne arises from clogged pores, sebum, inflammation, hormones, bacteria, and sometimes diet or stress. Start with gentle skin care and OTC benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. See a clinician for persistent, severe, or scarring acne; treatments include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and isotretinoin.
There's no single best acne treatment for everyone. This updated guide explains prescription and OTC options, why isotretinoin is reserved for severe cases, the role of topical retinoids and salicylic acid, and why consistency and medical supervision matter.
Updated overview of acne causes, practical skincare, OTC options, and modern prescription treatments including topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, hormonal therapies, and isotretinoin. Practical tips for reducing irritation and when to see a dermatologist.
Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive exfoliation that improves texture, pores, and mild pigmentation. Professional treatments are stronger than at-home devices; check contraindications and follow aftercare - including sun protection.
Updated options for acne scar reduction include lasers, microneedling, subcision, fillers or fat grafting, and intralesional injections. Early acne control and careful aftercare - gentle cleansing, sun protection, and avoiding picking - improve outcomes.
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that exfoliates the outer skin layer to improve dullness, mild scarring, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. Sessions take about 30-60 minutes with minimal downtime; multiple treatments spaced weeks apart produce the best results.
Practical, evidence-based steps to reduce breakouts: modest diet changes, a gentle twice-daily routine, non-comedogenic products, and prompt treatment for severe acne.
Updated, practical guidance on managing acne: gentle skincare, proven topical and medical treatments, realistic expectations, and cautious use of natural remedies.
Adapt your cosmetics and skincare when treating acne: use oil-free, non-comedogenic products, expect early irritation with retinoids, limit antibiotics to reduce resistance, consider newer topical options, and consult dermatology for scar treatments and safety monitoring.
Practical, up-to-date overview of acne causes, prevention, and evidence-based treatments - from gentle skincare and dietary factors to topical medicines, hormonal options and procedures.
Laser and light therapies can reduce inflammatory acne and sebum, offering a non-drug option for many patients. They require multiple sessions, have short recovery time, and are not a guaranteed cure for severe acne.
Acne scars form when inflammation from clogged hair follicles damages skin structure. Types include atrophic (ice-pick, boxcar, rolling) and raised scars (hypertrophic, keloid). Early treatment and avoiding picking reduce risk; dermatologic procedures can improve existing scars.
Updated overview of acne treatments: topical and oral medicines, procedural scar treatments, and lifestyle measures including when to seek a dermatologist.
Clear, practical guidance on modern acne treatment: who treats it, goals of care, topical and oral options (including adapalene and isotretinoin), procedural choices for scars, timelines, and when to see a dermatologist.
A modern guide to acne: causes (sebum, blocked follicles, Cutibacterium acnes), basic care, OTC and prescription treatments, and when to consult a dermatologist.
Practical, up-to-date guidance on what causes acne and how to treat it with topical options, daily-care tips, and when to see a clinician.
Cystic acne is a deep, inflamed acne that requires consistent, evidence-based care: gentle daily skin care, topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, and specialist options including hormonal therapy or isotretinoin for severe cases. Avoid picking cysts and consult a dermatologist early to prevent scarring.