When will I notice an improvement?

It differs between people and between treatments, and most plans need time and follow-up before a change shows. The doctor explains the expected timeframe in each case.

Does food affect acne?

The scientific evidence on food and acne is not conclusive, and some people notice a link between certain foods and breakouts. This can be discussed with the doctor.

Can I wear make-up during treatment?

The doctor may suggest products that do not clog pores, and explains what fits the treatment plan.

Will the acne come back after treatment?

It can return in some people, especially with hormonal changes or when treatment stops. That is why the doctor may suggest a follow-up plan to maintain the improvement.

Acne Treatment

What it is

Acne is a common skin condition caused by blocked and inflamed pores, and it is influenced by factors including hormones, oil production and bacteria. Treatment starts with a medical assessment of the type and severity of the acne, after which the doctor sets a plan that may include topical treatments, medicines taken by mouth, or in-clinic procedures. The aim is to bring the acne under control and reduce the chance of scarring, which takes time and follow-up.

Who may benefit, and why people ask about it

Recurring blackheads or whiteheads.
Inflamed or painful spots, or deep spots under the skin.
Acne that persists or appears in adulthood.
Acne linked to hormonal changes or the menstrual cycle.
Dark or red marks that remain after spots have gone.
Acne that has not improved with over-the-counter skin-care products.

A treatment plan may help bring acne under control, and the response differs from person to person.

What the consultation covers

Questions about when the acne started, what makes it worse, and previous treatments and how well they worked.
A review of your skin-care routine and the cosmetics you use.
A review of medicines and supplements, as some can affect acne.
In some cases, questions about menstrual regularity or other hormonal symptoms; the doctor may request tests.
A skin examination to determine the type and severity of the acne, and any scarring or pigmentation.
Questions about pregnancy or pregnancy plans, because some acne medicines are not used during pregnancy.
Setting the plan, and discussing expectations and follow-up appointments.

Questions you may want to ask the doctor:

When might I expect to notice a change?
What side effects does the proposed treatment have, and how do I manage them?
What should I do if the acne gets worse during treatment?
How should I adjust my skin-care routine to fit the plan?

What a visit looks like

Registration, and completing the health-history form.
A skin assessment; clinical photos may be taken with your consent to track change, kept in your medical file only and never published.
A discussion of the plan, which may include, depending on the case: topical treatments, oral medicines, or in-clinic procedures such as chemical peels, extraction or light-based treatments.
If an in-clinic procedure is done: the skin is cleansed, the procedure is performed, then the skin is soothed and sunscreen is applied.
Written instructions, and follow-up appointments to assess the response and any side effects.

The number of visits or sessions, their length and the interval between them vary from person to person and are set by the doctor based on the assessment.

Preparation

It helps to bring a list of the products and medicines you use now, or have used before, for acne.
Please tell the doctor about all medicines, supplements and any known allergies.
Please tell the doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy; some acne medicines must not be used during pregnancy, and some require reliable contraception throughout treatment.
Before in-clinic procedures: avoid sunburn, and pause certain topical products for a period, following the doctor's instructions.
It helps to arrive without make-up if possible, so the doctor can examine the skin.

After the session and possible side effects

Side effects depend on the chosen plan.

Common effects, usually temporary:

Dryness, redness, peeling or mild stinging with topical treatments, especially at the start.
Increased sensitivity to the sun with some treatments, which is why sunscreen is advised.
Temporary redness, peeling or sensitivity after in-clinic procedures.
Acne may look worse for a while at the start of some treatments.

Effects that need monitoring:

Oral medicines have their own side effects, and some require regular blood tests; the doctor explains these before you start.

Avoid squeezing or picking spots, and follow the plan as the doctor prescribed it. Please contact the clinic if you notice severe irritation or signs of an allergic reaction.

The doctor explains the full list of risks during the consultation.

Limitations

Results vary from person to person; improvement usually takes time and does not appear after a single visit.
Acne can return after treatment stops, and the doctor may suggest a plan to maintain the improvement.
Treating active acne does not usually remove existing scars; scarring and its treatment options are assessed separately.
Not every treatment suits everyone; the doctor may advise against some options in situations including pregnancy, certain health conditions, or medicine interactions.
Much of the outcome depends on following the plan and attending follow-up.