Why do I have acne?

Acne Treatment Breakthroughs: From Teen Breakouts to Adult-Onset Acne

Acne doesn’t discriminate—it affects people of all ages, from teens navigating hormonal changes to adults experiencing late-onset breakouts. While acne can be frustrating, the good news is that treatment options have advanced significantly, offering effective solutions for even the most stubborn cases.

Here’s a guide to the latest breakthroughs in acne treatments, tailored to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

Understanding Acne: Why Does It Happen?

Acne occurs when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation. Factors like hormones, stress, diet, and genetics can all play a role.

While teen acne is often linked to hormonal surges during puberty, adult-onset acne can be triggered by:

• Hormonal Fluctuations: Common during pregnancy, menopause, or with certain medical conditions.

• Stress: Increased cortisol levels can worsen oil production.

• Skin-Care Products: Heavy or pore-clogging products can lead to breakouts.

• Diet: High-glycemic foods and dairy may contribute to acne in some individuals.

Breakthrough Treatments for Acne

Whether you’re dealing with occasional pimples or chronic breakouts, these cutting-edge treatments can help:

1. Prescription-Strength Topicals

Advancements in topical treatments are offering more targeted solutions:

• Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives, like tretinoin or adapalene, unclog pores and speed up cell turnover. Newer formulations reduce irritation while maintaining effectiveness.

• Combination Treatments: Products that pair benzoyl peroxide with clindamycin or adapalene provide dual-action benefits to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation.

2. Oral Medications

For moderate to severe acne, oral medications can be game-changers:

• Spironolactone: This hormone-regulating medication is effective for women with hormonal acne.

• Isotretinoin: Commonly known as Accutane, it remains a gold standard for severe or cystic acne, offering long-term results.

• Antibiotics: Short courses of antibiotics can reduce inflammation and bacterial growth, but they’re typically used alongside other treatments to prevent resistance.

3. Light and Laser Therapies

Non-invasive light and laser therapies are emerging as popular options for patients looking for quick results:

• Blue Light Therapy: Targets acne-causing bacteria without damaging the skin.

• Fractional Lasers: Improve acne scars while also addressing active breakouts.

• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines light treatment with a special solution to reduce oil production and kill bacteria.

4. Chemical Peels and Extractions

Regular in-office treatments can help manage breakouts and improve skin texture:

• Chemical Peels: Salicylic acid or glycolic acid peels exfoliate dead skin cells, clear clogged pores, and fade acne scars.

• Extractions: Performed by dermatological providers, extractions remove blackheads and whiteheads safely to prevent further inflammation.

5. Personalized Skin-Care Plans

Dermatologists and dermatological providers now offer tailored treatment plans that combine at-home and in-office solutions. From recommending non-comedogenic products to selecting the right cleansers and moisturizers, personalized guidance ensures your skin gets exactly what it needs.

Treating Acne Scars: A Next Step

Once acne is under control, addressing scars is often the next priority. Treatments like microneedling, fractional lasers, and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) can help smooth skin and improve discoloration.

Acne Myths to Leave Behind

• Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
  Fact: Washing your face excessively can actually irritate your skin and worsen acne.

• Myth: You’ll outgrow acne.
  Fact: While many teens see improvement as they age, adult-onset acne is common and treatable.

Why Work with a Dermatologist or Dermatological Provider?

Navigating acne treatments can be overwhelming, but board-certified dermatologists and dermatological providers specialize in creating effective plans tailored to your unique needs. They’ll assess your skin type, the severity of your acne, and your lifestyle to recommend a combination of treatments that deliver results.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re a teenager facing your first breakout or an adult dealing with unexpected acne, you don’t have to suffer in silence. With today’s advanced treatments, clearer skin is within reach.

Ready to take the first step? Schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or dermatological provider to explore the best options for your skin.       

June Featured Service: 

Bootcamp for Breakouts: Clear Skin Starts at the Boutik

Whether you’re struggling with hormonal acne, adult-onset breakouts, or persistent flare-ups that haven’t responded to over-the-counter products, our approach is data-driven, comprehensive, and customized to your skin.

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Our Acne Bootcamp begins with a detailed assessment, curated skincare and/or prescriptions and advanced laser treatments with the Aerolase laser – a 650-microsecond Nd:YAG laser that targets acne at its source without damaging the surrounding skin. This treatment is safe for all skin tones and works by reducing inflammation, suppressing Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, and shrinking overactive oil glands. Aerolase also improves early textural changes and post-acne discoloration by stimulating collagen remodeling. As part of a comprehensive acne regimen, Aerolase helps accelerate results, reduce active breakouts, and restore skin clarity—all with minimal discomfort and no downtime. ✨