Acne Treatment
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all ages. While it often begins during adolescence, many adults begin or continue to struggle with breakouts that impact their relationships and skin health. Fortunately, there are many effective treatment options available today. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and an individualized approach often yields the best results. Preventing and treating scarring is also a vital part of acne care.
Dr. Joshua Freedman, a trusted medical and surgical dermatologist in Swedesboro, New Jersey, specializes in tailoring acne treatments to meet each patient’s unique needs, combining medical expertise with innovative techniques and strategies.
Topical treatments, such as creams, gels, and lotions, are often the first step in acne care. These include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, hormonal therapies, and topical antibiotics.
Advantages: They are easy to apply directly to the skin and can effectively target clogged pores, excess oil, and surface bacteria. Retinoids, in particular, help to speed up cell turnover and reduce the risk of scarring.
Disadvantages: Topicals may cause dryness, redness, or irritation, especially when first starting. They may take several weeks to show visible improvement, which can be discouraging for patients expecting faster results.
In addition to topical therapies, patients with moderate to severe acne may benefit from oral medications. These include oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies such as birth control pills, and isotretinoin (commonly known by its brand name Accutane).
Advantages: Oral medications can treat acne from the inside, especially when breakouts are widespread or resistant to topical care. Hormonal therapies are particularly effective for women with acne linked to hormonal fluctuations. Isotretinoin is one of the most powerful options and often leads to long-term remission, but it isn’t for everyone.
Disadvantages: Potential side effects vary. Antibiotics can cause stomach upset and may lead to antibiotic resistance. Hormonal medications may be unsuitable for everyone. Isotretinoin requires strict monitoring due to potential side effects, including dry skin, elevated cholesterol, and, rarely, more serious health concerns.
Dermatologist-administered chemical peels use specialized solutions to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
Advantages: Peels can improve both active breakouts and early scarring. They also enhance skin texture and tone. They can be an effective option for improving acne scarring, though their results depend on the type and severity of scars.
Disadvantages: Patients may experience redness or peeling for a few days. Results may require multiple sessions, and not all skin types are suitable for stronger peels.
Light-based treatments, including blue light therapy, photodynamic therapy, and fractional laser resurfacing, target acne bacteria, reduce oil production, and help improve scarring.
Advantages: These treatments are non-invasive, require little downtime, and can address both acne and early scars simultaneously. They are particularly beneficial for patients who want to reduce reliance on medication.
Disadvantages: Results vary, and multiple sessions are usually necessary. Some treatments may be costly and not covered by insurance.
Microneedling involves creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production, helping to reduce acne scars and improve overall skin quality.
Advantages: It is effective for both newer and older acne scars. Results include smoother texture and healthier-looking skin. When combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet-rich fibrinogen (PRF), it promotes healing and skin rejuvenation.
Disadvantages: Temporary redness and swelling are common. A series of treatments is usually required, and results develop gradually over time.
For large, painful cystic acne lesions, cortisone injections offer rapid relief.
Advantages: They quickly reduce inflammation and pain, sometimes shrinking a cyst within 24 to 48 hours. This makes them especially helpful before important events.
Disadvantages: They do not prevent future breakouts and must be performed by a dermatologist. Rarely, they may cause slight skin thinning at the injection site.
Preventing scars begins with controlling active acne. Treatments such as topical retinoids, oral medications, and professional procedures reduce the risk of long-term marks. Once scars are present, several options are available, including laser resurfacing to smooth uneven skin texture, microneedling to stimulate collagen repair, dermal fillers to lift depressed scars, and surgical techniques such as punch excision for deeper scars.
Advantages: Scar treatments not only improve appearance but also restore confidence. Many of these methods stimulate natural healing for long-lasting improvements.
Disadvantages: Multiple sessions may be needed, and some procedures involve temporary downtime. Results depend on scar type, skin type, and consistency of care.
In many cases, the most effective acne care involves combining multiple treatments. For example, a patient may use a topical retinoid at home, receive chemical peels in the office, and undergo microneedling sessions for scars.
Advantages: A customized approach maximizes results, addresses acne from multiple angles, and treats both breakouts and scars.
Disadvantages: Combination therapy can require more time and financial investment, and patients must be consistent with follow-up care.
Acne can feel overwhelming, but with today’s wide range of treatment options, clearer and healthier skin is within reach. If you are struggling with breakouts or are concerned about scarring, professional guidance can make all the difference.
Dr. Joshua Freedman, a leading medical and surgical dermatologist in Swedesboro, New Jersey, is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-lasting results through personalized care and advanced treatments. Schedule a consultation today to explore the right solution for your skin and take the first step toward renewed confidence.
At a Glance
Dr. Joshua Freedman
- Double Board-Certified in Dermatology and Mohs Micrographic Surgery
- Providing Comprehensive Medical Dermatology for All Ages
- Expert in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Reconstructive Techniques
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