Acne Treatments by Concern

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years working as a dermatology physician assistant, it’s that all acne is NOT created equally. My acne does not look like yours and yours does not look like your friends.

So, why are we constantly fooled into thinking that what works for someone else MUST be the right treatment for us.

Different types of acne respond to different treatments. Here is your BASIC breakdown of acne treatments based on concern.

1. Blackheads

   • Salicylic acid

     • This beta hydroxy acid acts as a chemical exfoliant to help smooth out the skin and unclog your pores.

       • Cerave SA Cleanser

       • Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

   • Retinoid

     • Retinoids work to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog your pores.

     • They also stimulate collagen production, which will ultimately lead to smaller appearing pores.

       • Differin Gel

       • La RochePosay Effacalar Adapalene

2. Whiteheads

   • These pus-filled pimples typically respond best to benzoyl peroxide.

     • Face:

       • Cerave Acne Cream Foaming Cleanser

     • Body:

       • Panoxyl

3. Deep, cystic breakouts

   • These painful breakouts are a red-flag for future prescription strength treatments, such as stronger retinoids, oral antibiotics, or even accutane.

   • In the meantime, consider adding a zinc supplement into your daily routine.

4. Redness

   • Inflammation typically responds to azelaic acid or niacinamide.

     • The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension

     • La RochePosay Double Repair Moisturizer

5. Acne Scarring

   • Believe it or not, your acne WILL go away. Once clear skin has been achieved for 4-6 months consistently, I like to start focusing on acne scarring. The 2 MOST important components of a scar-reducing regimen are sunscreen and retinoid.

     • Sunscreen

       • La RochePosay Anthelios Mineral

       • EltaMD

     • Retinoid

       • Differin Gel

       • La RochePosay Effaclar Adapalene

       • Neutrogena Stubborn Marks

Still not cutting it? If you’ve tried the above treatment recommendations for a few months with little to no improvement, you’re likely a candidate for a prescription-strength regimen!

Lucky for you, I know a girl ;).

-xoxo