Do you continue to break out even though you’ve tried plenty of acne treatments? Are you convinced that nothing’s going to work, but given time, the acne will clear on its own?
You don’t have to wait. Board-certified dermatologists are at the forefront of advances in treating acne, so they can determine the most effective treatment plan for you.
Here’s what you can expect when you see a board-certified dermatologist for your acne.
How do dermatologists diagnose acne?
Effective treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. If you have acne, your dermatologist can diagnose you by looking at the breakouts.
While examining your skin, your dermatologist will notice what types of acne you have and where the breakouts appear on your skin. Different types of acne often require different treatment.
With a dermatologist's help, virtually everyone can see clearer skin
To see clearing, you need to stick to your treatment plan and understand that it takes at least 6 to 8 weeks before you start to see fewer breakouts.
Sometimes what looks like acne isn’t acne: What looks like acne may be another condition. For example, some people mistake hidradenitis suppurativa, also called “acne inversa,” for acne. Treatment for this condition differs from that for acne.
Another condition that can be mistaken for acne is perioral dermatitis. It often causes acne-like breakouts around the mouth or “T-zone” of the face. A skin infection called folliculitis can also be mistaken for acne.
Whether you have acne or another condition, your dermatologist can give you an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How do dermatologists treat acne?
The goals of acne treatment are to:
While the goals are the same for each patient, there is no one-size-fits-all acne treatment. The best acne treatment for one patient is not necessarily the best treatment for another patient. Your treatment plan may include one or more of the following.
HOW TO APPLY TOPICAL ACNE MEDICATION
Today, there are many effective treatments for acne. To get the greatest benefit from topical (apply to the skin) acne medications, follow these tips from board-certified dermatologists.
Medication you apply to your skin
This type of medication is often included in an acne treatment plan. Your dermatologist may include more than one topical (apply to the skin) medication, as this strategy helps fight the different causes of acne. The topical medications, all approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), that dermatologists may include in an acne treatment plan are:
Retinoid you apply to your skin: This medication works to clear your pores, and can treat blackheads, whiteheads, and some pimples. If you develop dark spots after acne clears, a retinoid can help lighten these spots.
Dermatologists also may recommend a topical retinoid as a maintenance treatment. This type of treatment can keep your skin clear once acne is under control.
The retinoids used to treat acne are:
If you’ve used a retinoid in the past and found that it irritated your skin, it’s important to share that information with your dermatologist. Irritation is a fairly common response and doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re allergic to the medication. In many cases, a retinoid can still be part of your treatment plan.
Modern retinoids tend to cause less irritation than earlier formulations, and dermatologists have several strategies to minimize discomfort. To reduce irritation, your dermatologist may advise you to apply a smaller amount of medication, use the product less frequently, or apply a moisturizer first—particularly if your skin needs a stronger retinoid. Any of these adjustments should only be made under your dermatologist’s supervision.
Following your dermatologist’s instructions carefully will help you achieve the best results. This includes applying the medication as directed—often in the evening—and protecting your skin from the sun while using a retinoid. To guard against sun damage, you should seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply a non-comedogenic sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance to all exposed skin.
Benzoyl peroxide is another key ingredient in many acne treatments. It targets acne-causing bacteria and works best when combined with another acne medication that treats different aspects of acne formation. Your dermatologist may prescribe a product that combines benzoyl peroxide with a retinoid or a topical antibiotic. Over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide are also widely available in cleansers, gels, and creams. To prevent dryness and irritation, start with a lower concentration, such as 2.5%.
A topical antibiotic may also be included in your treatment plan. This medication reduces both inflammation and acne-causing bacteria on the skin. When used with benzoyl peroxide, it lowers the risk of antibiotic resistance and enhances effectiveness. Some prescription acne treatments combine a topical antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid to provide the proper balance of ingredients. If the ideal combination isn’t available in a single product, your dermatologist will prescribe separate medications and instruct you on how to use them correctly.
Combination medications—which may include benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, and retinoids—are popular because they simplify acne care. These products target multiple causes of acne, improve treatment results, reduce potential side effects, and ensure consistent dosing. They’re especially effective for mild to moderate acne and can also support more intensive therapies for severe cases.
Common combination options include:
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Retinoid + benzoyl peroxide (Epiduo, Epiduo Forte, Twyneo)
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Retinoid + benzoyl peroxide + antibiotic (Cabtreo)
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Retinoid + antibiotic (Veltin, Ziana)
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Benzoyl peroxide + antibiotic (Acanya, BenzaClin, Benzamycin, Duac, Onexton)
Possible side effects include dryness, peeling, irritation, burning, or temporary worsening of acne. Using medications exactly as prescribed minimizes these effects—applying more than recommended will not speed up results.
Another topical option is clascoterone (Winlevi), the first FDA-approved medication designed to address hormonal causes of acne in both males and females aged 12 and older. It’s typically applied twice a day and helps manage moderate to severe acne.
Salicylic acid has long been used to open clogged pores and gently exfoliate the skin. It’s available in many strengths and product types, including face washes and moisturizers. Azelaic acid is another effective option that unclogs pores, reduces bacteria and inflammation, and helps fade dark spots after acne clears.
For moderate to severe acne, oral medications may be necessary. Dermatologists commonly prescribe antibiotics—such as doxycycline, minocycline, or sarecycline—to reduce inflammation and bacteria. These are used for limited periods and typically combined with topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide to prevent bacterial resistance.
Birth control pills, specifically combined oral contraceptives, can help regulate hormones that contribute to acne. Dermatologists will evaluate your health history before prescribing these, as they’re not suitable for everyone, particularly smokers or those with heart conditions or who are pregnant. FDA-approved acne-treating contraceptives include Beyaz, Estrostep, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Yaz.
For women with persistent hormonal acne, spironolactone can be an effective treatment, especially for acne on the lower face, chin, or jawline. It is often used alongside birth control to prevent pregnancy, as the medication can cause birth defects. It’s generally prescribed only for women, since in men it may cause breast development or erectile dysfunction.
In cases of severe nodular acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments, dermatologists may recommend isotretinoin, previously known by the brand name Accutane. This powerful medication targets all causes of acne but requires close monitoring due to potential side effects.
Sometimes, dermatologists enhance medical treatments with in-office procedures. These may include corticosteroid injections to calm inflamed nodules, chemical peels to unclog pores, laser or light therapy for mild to moderate acne, or acne extraction surgery performed under sterile conditions to prevent scarring.
With professional guidance, acne can be effectively controlled. A dermatologist can create a safe, personalized combination of treatments to clear breakouts, prevent scarring, and keep acne from returning.
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