Acne is not one problem: blackheads, inflamed pimples, deep nodules, hormonal breakouts, and acne-related dark marks can require very different strategies.
The best plan controls active inflammation first, protects against scarring, and fits the patient’s age, skin type, routine, and prior treatments. That may mean topical therapy, oral medication, hormonal options, procedures, or a combination.
Types of Acne and Treatment Options
Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the hair follicle and oil gland. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory papules and pustules, deeper nodules or cysts, and post-inflammatory dark marks or scars.
What causes acne?
Acne develops through a combination of excess oil production, follicular plugging, inflammation, hormonal influences, and bacteria that normally live on the skin. Genetics, medications, cosmetics, friction, and stress can also influence severity.
How is acne treated?
Treatment depends on age, acne type, severity, scarring risk, pregnancy status, and prior therapies. Options may include topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical or oral antibiotics when appropriate, hormonal treatments, spironolactone in selected patients, and isotretinoin for severe or treatment-resistant acne. Selected patients may also discuss adjunctive light-based treatment, including photodynamic therapy (PDT); suitability and evidence vary by acne type and treatment protocol.
Why treat early?
Controlling inflammatory acne can reduce the risk of permanent scarring and persistent pigment changes. Patients with melanin-rich skin may be especially bothered by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation even after active acne improves.
What about acne scars?
Scar treatment is usually addressed after active acne is controlled and may include microneedling, subcision, resurfacing, injections, or other procedures depending on scar type and skin tone.
Acne treatment should be adjusted over time. Follow-up focuses on whether new lesions are decreasing, whether dark marks or scars are accumulating, and whether the regimen is tolerable enough to use consistently.
Related reading from Borealis
Explore these articles for more background and questions to discuss at your visit.
Need to be seen quickly? Same-day and next-day urgent dermatology appointments may be available at our Garden City, Syosset and Bellerose offices. Call (516) 246-8800 or book online.