Number 2 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)

Number 1 Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancer Care
Number 1 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
Number 3 Pigment & Lesion Disorders
Number 4 Non-Cancer Growth
Number 5 Surgical Dermatology (Non-Cancer Procedures)
Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology
Acne & Acne Scarring PDF

• Acne & Acne Scarring

1. What are Acne & Acne Scarring

Acne is a medical skin condition—not a hygiene problem. It happens when pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples, and sometimes deeper cysts.

Acne scarring can occur when inflammation affects deeper layers of skin. The good news: with the right plan, we can control active acne and then improve scarring and discoloration safely.

2. Types of Acne We Treat

  • Blackheads & whiteheads (comedonal acne)

  • Inflammatory acne (red bumps and pustules)

  • Cystic acne (deep, tender bumps)

  • Hormonal acne (often jawline/chin pattern)

  • Acne on face, chest, and back

  • Acne-related dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

3. Acne Scarring: What It Is (and What It Isn’t)

Many patients have a mix of:

  • Texture scars (true scarring): ice-pick, boxcar, rolling scars

  • Dark marks / red marks after acne (not true scars): these often fade but can take time

  • Enlarged pores & uneven texture

We treat active acne first to prevent new scars, then target what remains.

4. Treatment Options

Your dermatologist will tailor treatment based on acne type, severity, skin type, lifestyle, and pregnancy status (if relevant).

a) Acne Treatments

  • Prescription topical therapies (to prevent clogged pores and reduce inflammation)

  • Oral medications when needed (for moderate-to-severe acne)

  • Hormonal options in select patients

  • In-office treatments for targeted breakouts (when appropriate)

b) Acne Scar Treatments (Once Acne Is Controlled)

Scar treatment depends on scar type and skin tone. Options may include:

  • Microneedling (texture improvement)

  • Chemical peels (tone + mild texture)

  • Laser or light-based treatments (selected cases)

  • Subcision (for tethered/rolling scars)

  • Filler (selected scars, selected patients)

  • Combination plans for best results

Important: Scar treatments usually require a series, not one session.

5. Pre-Treatment Instructions (Before Your Acne / Acne Scar Visit)

a) Before an Acne Evaluation

  • Bring a list of current skincare products and medications

  • Tell us if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding

  • If you use acne treatments (benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, acids), let us know what and how often

  • Avoid picking or squeezing lesions (reduces scarring)

b) Before a Scar Procedure (Microneedling / Peel / Laser)

  • Avoid tanning and heavy sun exposure for at least 2 weeks

  • Stop harsh exfoliants (scrubs, strong acids) and retinoids as directed by your provider

  • Tell us if you have:

    • History of cold sores (for certain facial procedures)

    • Keloids or poor wound healing

    • Recent isotretinoin use (we’ll guide timing based on your plan)

  • Arrive with clean skin (no makeup on the treatment area)

6. Post-Treatment Instructions (After Care)

a) After Starting Acne Medications

  • Expect gradual improvement: many acne regimens take 6–12 weeks for meaningful results

  • Mild dryness/irritation is common early—use a gentle moisturizer as recommended

  • Use daily sunscreen (some acne treatments increase sun sensitivity)

  • Do not stop treatment early—consistency matters

b) After Scar Procedures

(Your office will provide exact instructions based on treatment type.)

General aftercare:

  • Use gentle cleanser and bland moisturizer

  • Avoid picking, scrubbing, or exfoliating treated skin

  • Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and heavy sweating for the timeframe you’re given

  • Strict sun protection is essential to prevent discoloration

Call the office if you notice:

  • Increasing pain, swelling, pus, fever

  • Severe blistering

  • Worsening redness after the expected early recovery window

c) When to Schedule an Appointment

Book a visit if you have:

  • Acne that is persistent, painful, or scarring

  • Acne not responding to over-the-counter products

  • Breakouts affecting confidence or quality of life

  • Dark marks or scarring you’d like evaluated

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acne caused by poor hygiene?

No. Acne is primarily driven by oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. Over-washing or harsh scrubs can actually make it worse.

Adult acne can be related to hormones, stress, genetics, skincare products, and inflammation. Many adults—especially women—experience acne well beyond the teen years.

Most regimens need 6–12 weeks for noticeable improvement. Some people worsen slightly at first before improving. Your dermatologist will guide adjustments over time.

Diet affects acne differently for each person. Some patients notice flares with high-glycemic foods or dairy, but it’s not universal. We can discuss practical, evidence-based guidance.

  • Scars are changes in skin texture (indentations or raised scars).

  • Dark or red marks are color changes after inflammation and often fade gradually, but may take months.

Yes. Many acne scars can be improved with a customized plan. The best approach depends on scar type (ice-pick, boxcar, rolling) and skin tone.

Usually no. Treating scarring works best after breakouts are controlled so you don’t create new scars while treating old ones.

It’s best to avoid it. Picking and squeezing increases inflammation and raises the risk of scarring and discoloration.

Some acne medications and procedures can increase sun sensitivity. Daily sunscreen and sun avoidance during recovery are important.

Seek care sooner if you have painful cysts, rapid scarring, widespread acne on the chest/back, or acne affecting mood and confidence—early treatment helps prevent permanent scarring.