Acne-prone skin is one of the most maintenance-requiring skins we know of. And acne doesn’t just stop after your teens. For many in their 20s, it lingers—showing up right when you’re juggling college, early career pressure, social life, or simply trying to find balance in adulting.
It can be frustrating, especially when it feels like you’re doing everything right.
But here’s the good news: acne is highly treatable. As dermatologists, we see clear, consistent results when the right clinical care is combined with mindful routines at home—and it doesn’t have to be overly complicated.
Here’s what we recommend to manage acne effectively.
Clinical Treatments That Make a Real Difference
1. Prescription Topicals
We often start with topical treatments tailored to your skin type and acne severity. These include retinoids (like adapalene or tretinoin) to boost cell turnover, benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria, and topical antibiotics like clindamycin to reduce inflammation. These work best when used consistently, under supervision.
2. Oral Medications
If topical solutions aren’t enough, we may recommend:
- Antibiotics (such as doxycycline) for inflamed acne.
- Hormonal therapy (like birth control pills or spironolactone) for hormonally-triggered breakouts.
- Isotretinoin (Accutane) for severe or cystic acne—highly effective, but only under close monitoring due to potential side effects.
In-clinic chemical peels are a great way to improve skin texture and reduce acne lesions. Using ingredients like salicylic acid (which penetrates oily skin) or glycolic acid (which exfoliates the top layer), these peels help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and control oil production. Multiple sessions may be needed, but downtime is minimal, and results can be seen within a few weeks.
4. Laser and Light Therapies
For recurring or inflammatory acne, treatments like blue light therapy, IPL (intense pulsed light), or fractional laser resurfacing can be incredibly effective. These target acne-causing bacteria, reduce oil glands’ activity, and even help fade dark marks or scarring. They’re non-invasive, require no downtime, and are ideal for people who want long-term results without medication.
5. Extraction Procedures
When acne becomes cystic or painful, manual extractions performed by dermatologists can provide relief without risking scarring. These sterile procedures remove blackheads, whiteheads, or pus-filled acne safely. Unlike DIY popping, which can push bacteria deeper or damaged skin, clinical extractions ensure controlled healing and prevent long-term marks.
At-Home Basics That Support Your Skin
- Don’t touch or pop pimples, even if they seem ready.aintenance and a glow-up, 4 to 6-week intervals are great for skin that is refreshed and healthy.
- Use a gentle face wash twice a day—look for sulfate-free and non-foaming formulas.
- Moisturize daily with a gel-based or non-comedogenic product.
Conclusion:
Acne is common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it forever. If your breakouts are painful, persistent, or starting to affect your confidence, it’s worth consulting a dermatologist early on. The sooner you address it, the easier it becomes to prevent future flare-ups and minimize scarring. With the right combination of clinical treatments and consistent daily care, clear and healthy skin is entirely within reach.
Remember, everyone’s skin has a story—this is just one chapter. Progress may be gradual, but it’s happening. Visit Welona today to get the best treatment out there.
