Acne develops from a combination of factors that affect the hair follicles and oil glands of the skin.

These include:

• Increased oil (sebum) production
• Clogged pores from dead skin cells
• Bacterial overgrowth
• Inflammation

Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, stress, and certain skincare or cosmetic products can all contribute to acne development.

Because acne has multiple underlying causes, treatment is most effective when it targets several pathways at once.

Comedonal Acne

This form of acne is characterized by clogged pores without significant inflammation.

It includes:

• Blackheads (open comedones)
• Whiteheads (closed comedones)

Comedonal acne often responds well to topical treatments that normalize skin turnover and prevent pore blockage.

Inflammatory Acne

Inflammatory acne includes red, swollen lesions that can be tender or painful.

These may include:

• Papules
• Pustules
• Nodules

This type of acne often requires a combination of topical and oral treatments to reduce inflammation and bacterial activity.

Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is common in adolescents and adults, particularly in women.

It often presents as:

• Breakouts along the jawline and lower face
• Cyclical flares associated with hormonal changes

Treatment may involve medications that regulate hormonal influence on oil production.

Acne in Adults

Adult acne is increasingly common and may differ from adolescent acne in both presentation and underlying causes.

It often requires a more nuanced approach, balancing efficacy with skin sensitivity and long-term maintenance.

Topical Treatments for Acne

Topical therapies are often the foundation of acne treatment. These medications work directly on the skin to reduce clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.

Common options include:

• Retinoids to normalize cell turnover
• Benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria
• Topical antibiotics
• Azelaic acid for inflammation and pigmentation

Treatment regimens are carefully selected to balance effectiveness with tolerability.

Oral Medications for Acne

For moderate to severe acne, oral medications may be recommended.

These can include:

• Oral antibiotics for inflammatory acne
• Hormonal therapies for appropriate patients
• Isotretinoin for severe or treatment-resistant acne

Each option is considered based on the patient’s clinical presentation and goals.

Procedural Treatments for Acne

In addition to medical therapy, procedural treatments can accelerate improvement and reduce long-term damage.

These may include:

• Chemical peels to improve clogged pores and tone
• Laser and light-based therapies
• Cortisone injections for large, painful cysts
• Acne extractions

Procedures are selected based on the type of acne and desired speed of improvement.

A consistent, appropriate skincare routine plays a critical role in acne management.

Patients are guided on:

• Gentle cleansing without over-stripping the skin
• Use of non-comedogenic products
• Sun protection to prevent pigmentation and irritation

At Treiber Dermatology, skincare recommendations are tailored to complement medical treatment and support long-term results.

One of the most important goals of acne treatment is preventing scarring.

Untreated or severe acne can lead to permanent textural changes, including:

• Rolling scars
• Boxcar scars
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Early and effective treatment reduces the risk of these long-term changes. For patients who already have acne scars, additional treatments such as laser therapy, microneedling, or TCA CROSS may be recommended.

Acne should be treated early, even when mild. Delaying treatment can allow inflammation to persist and increase the risk of scarring and pigmentation.

Patients are encouraged to seek evaluation when acne:

• Is persistent or worsening
• Leaves marks or scars
• Does not respond to over-the-counter products
• Affects confidence or quality of life

Early intervention often leads to better and faster outcomes.

Acne is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and treatment should reflect that.

At Treiber Dermatology, each patient receives a customized plan that may evolve over time. As the skin improves, treatments are adjusted to maintain results while minimizing irritation.

This approach emphasizes both short-term improvement and long-term skin health.

Patients throughout New York and Connecticut choose Treiber Dermatology for acne care because of the practice’s expertise in both medical dermatology and aesthetic treatment.

Care is individualized, with attention to:

• Accurate diagnosis of acne type
• Selection of evidence-based treatments
• Prevention of scarring and pigmentation
• Integration of skincare and procedural options

The focus is on achieving clear, healthy skin in a way that is sustainable and appropriate for each patient.