Some people who have severe acne or acne scarring that does not respond to topical or oral medications may need additional treatments, such as:1
Topical Combination therapies: Overall, they represent a promising strategy in acne treatment, offering improved efficacy, simplified regimens, and reduced concerns regarding antibiotic resistance.2
Laser and light therapies: Laser delivers heat to the scarred collagen under the skin.3 Also, it Provide practical solutions for patients encountering persistent acne despite medical interventions and those experiencing adverse effects from medications.2
Chemical peels: with agents as Salicylic Acid and glycolic acid target acne and offer additional benefits such as refining skin texture and tone, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin health. New skin then grows smoother and can lessen acne scars.2,3
Injectingcorticosteroids directly into affected areas of your skin.1
Drainage and extraction. Your doctor may use special tools to gently remove whiteheads and blackheads or cysts that haven’t cleared up with topical medications.4
Microneedling (collagen induction therapy): a medical treatment that uses tiny needles to puncture the skin. Dermatologists use it to diminish Acne scars. Microneedling is minimally invasive and safe for all skin tones. Results appear gradually as your body produces collagen. It usually takes several months before you see full results. Microneedling is safe for most people and people of all skin tones. However, at-home microneedling can be risky, as there’s an increased risk of developing side effects like infection, scarring, or long-lasting skin discoloration.5
References:
Acne: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take. NIH. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/acne/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take. Last access 3-2024
Jaiswal S, Jawade S, Madke B, et al. (March 20, 2024) Recent Trends in the Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review Focusing on Clinical Studies in the Last Decade. Cureus 16(3): e56596
Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment & Prevention. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12233-acne. Last access date 3-2024.
Treatment – Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20368093?p=1. Last access 3-2024.
Microneedling can fade scars, uneven skin tone, and more. AAD. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/microneedling-fade-scars. Last access date: 4-2024