Understanding acne & pimples treatment
Acne happens when oil and dead skin block a follicle, bacteria multiply inside it, and the surrounding skin becomes inflamed. That is why blackheads, whiteheads, red papules, pustules and deeper nodules can all appear on the same face at the same time — and why one cream rarely settles everything.
A dermatologist grades acne by type and severity, and looks for patterns that point to a cause: jawline flares linked to hormonal cycles, acne that worsens with certain cosmetics or hair oils, or acne that has been aggravated by unsupervised steroid creams. Blood tests are advised only when something in the history or examination calls for them.
Treatment is planned in phases. The first phase controls active breakouts and prevents new ones. The second addresses the marks and scarring left behind, once inflammation has settled. Maintenance keeps the skin stable afterwards, because acne is a condition that is managed rather than switched off.
This may suit you if
- Persistent pimples, papules or pustules that keep returning
- Oily skin with recurring blackheads and whiteheads
- Acne that flares around the jawline or with the menstrual cycle
- Breakouts that have not settled with over-the-counter products
- Acne that is beginning to leave dark marks or early scarring
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Examination and grading
Your skin is examined in person, your current products and medicines are reviewed, and the acne is graded so progress can be measured objectively at each visit.
- 2
Prescription plan
Topical treatment is selected for your skin type and tolerance. Oral medication is added only when the grade of acne justifies it, with the reasons explained to you.
- 3
In-clinic support
Comedone extraction and medical peels may be scheduled alongside the prescription to clear blocked pores and speed up settling of active lesions.
- 4
Review and step-down
You are reviewed at planned intervals. Once the acne is controlled, treatment is stepped down to a maintenance routine rather than stopped abruptly.
Aftercare
- Use only the cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen advised for your skin
- Apply prescribed topicals at the frequency you were told, not more
- Avoid picking or squeezing lesions — this is what turns marks into scars
- Do not use steroid creams on the face unless a dermatologist has prescribed them
- Continue sun protection throughout treatment
Possible side effects
- Initial dryness, peeling or irritation from active topicals
- A temporary purge-like flare in the first few weeks with some agents
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation while lesions heal
- Oral medicines carry their own precautions, which are discussed before they are prescribed