Acne

Topical Treatments

These kill bacteria on your skin and/or reduce oil buildup. Topical treatments may include a retinoid, which helps the skin slough off dead cells that clog pores; prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide or antibiotics, which kill bacteria; and salicylic acid, which reduces swelling and redness and unclogs pores.

Systemic Treatments

Severe, inflamed acne may be treated with oral antibiotics that kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Birth control pills and other hormonal treatments may also be prescribed for women who have acne flare-ups timed to their menstrual cycles.

Isotretinoin

This oral retinoid medication, derived from vitamin A, works by unclogging pores and shrinking oil glands. It is typically prescribed for severe acne when other medications have failed. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you take this drug, which is sold under brand names such as Accutane, Claravis, Myorisan, and Zenatane.

Lasers and Light Therapies

Medicines activated by light or lasers kill bacteria in acne, as well as skin cells. Treats acne and reduces acne scarring.

Chemical Peels

Chemicals damage the top layer of skin to remove blackheads and solid, raised bumps (papules). Your appearance improves over a series of days or weeks, as a result of the skin’s natural healing process. Often used in combination with laser therapy and dermabrasion.

Acne Removal

Large acne cysts may be removed during a procedure called drainage and extraction. This is typically performed when the cyst does not respond to medication. Acne removal can ease pain caused by the cyst and reduce your chance of scarring.

Dermabrasion

Reduces acne scars. A rapidly rotating brush is applied to skin numbed by a topical anesthetic. Your dermatologist uses the device to carefully damage and remove the top layer of skin. The process may cause your skin to bleed. A scab forms, but your skin’s appearance improves over several days or weeks as a result of your body’s natural healing process.

Microdermabrasion

A spray removes superficial skin cells and promotes healing and the regeneration of clearer skin.

Evaluation

Your doctor will examine your skin to determine the type of acne you have and grade it from mild to severe. Your doctor will also ask a series of questions to identify the trigger of your acne, and whether it stems from an underlying medical condition, a side effect to medications, or other causes.

Effective Therapies for All Ages
Our dermatologists are skilled at diagnosing and treating acne in children, teens, and adults. We offer the most effective therapies available to treat mild to severe cases of acne. We also work closely with you to identify the sources that trigger your acne, to help you prevent future outbreaks.

Experts at Helping You Look Your Best
In addition to dermatologists, our team includes medical aestheticians and facial plastic surgeons who offer other treatments for acne at different stages, including acne scarring. These include product recommendations and facials, as well as acne surgery. Our medical aestheticians do not receive any commission for the products they recommend; their recommendations are based solely on your skin care needs.