Acne treatment

Acne feels personal and frustrating. You want results fast, but not at the cost of more irritation. Here’s a practical, no-nonsense guide to what actually helps and how to choose treatments that fit your skin.

Start with a simple routine

Less is more. Use a gentle cleanser twice a day, a water-based moisturizer, and sunscreen every morning. Add one active ingredient at a time so you can see how your skin reacts. If you use benzoyl peroxide, expect some dryness; pair it with moisturizer. If you choose salicylic acid, don’t combine it with strong acids or retinoids right away.

Benzoyl peroxide kills acne bacteria and reduces inflammation. It works well for whiteheads and pustules. Salicylic acid helps unclog pores and is good for blackheads. Topical retinoids, like adapalene, speed cell turnover and prevent new spots. These three are the core OTC options that actually make a difference.

When OTC is not enough

If topical treatments don’t clear things in 8–12 weeks, consider prescription options. Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or minocycline reduce inflammation and bacterial load. Be aware of side effects like sun sensitivity with doxycycline and possible discoloration with minocycline. Your provider may switch antibiotics or stop them after a few months to avoid resistance.

For stubborn inflammatory acne, dermatologists may prescribe oral isotretinoin. It can be life-changing but comes with serious side effects and requires blood tests and pregnancy prevention for those who can get pregnant. Hormonal treatments like combined birth control pills or spironolactone help many people with hormonal acne, especially when breakouts flare around the menstrual cycle.

Topical antibiotics are less commonly used alone because of resistance. Instead, they’re combined with benzoyl peroxide. For quick spot treatment, short courses of topical sulfur or azelaic acid can help calm red bumps without heavy drying.

Patch test new products and introduce one at a time. If skin gets worse, stop and talk to a clinician. Avoid picking or popping—this increases scarring risk and slows healing.

Shopping for medications online? Look for licensed pharmacies, secure payment pages, and clear contact information. Never buy oral isotretinoin or antibiotics from sites that don’t require a prescription. If a deal looks too good or the site hides its address, walk away.

Diet and lifestyle can help but won’t replace treatment. Keep a balanced diet, manage stress, get enough sleep, and avoid heavy or greasy cosmetics. Non-comedogenic labels help, but test products first.

For acne scarring or pigmentation, treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser resurfacing can help fade marks. These procedures are best done by a dermatologist and often need several sessions. Ask about recovery time and sun protection after any procedure. Keep expectations realistic—most treatments improve but don’t erase scars completely.

Track progress with photos and share updates with your provider monthly.

If acne causes scarring, deep cysts, or impacts your mood, see a dermatologist. Early professional care reduces long-term marks and gives you a plan that fits your life. Acne is treatable—find the right steps and stick with them.