4 Ways a Dermatologist Can Help You Manage Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions—and one of the most frustrating. Whether you're dealing with stubborn breakouts as a teenager or unexpected adult acne, it can take a toll on your confidence and quality of life. The good news? You don’t have to tackle it alone. A board-certified dermatologist has the tools, training, and experience to help you get clearer skin safely and effectively.

Here are four key ways a dermatologist can help treat and manage acne—no matter how mild or severe.

1. Personalized Treatment Plans

No two cases of acne are exactly alike. While drugstore products may offer temporary relief for some, they often don't address the root causes of more persistent or severe breakouts. A dermatologist will:

Examine your skin to determine the type of acne you have (e.g., blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, nodules)
Consider your skin type, lifestyle, and any underlying health factors
Create a personalized treatment plan that may include topical prescriptions, oral medications, or a combination of both

By customizing your care, dermatologists increase your chances of long-term success—without trial and error.

2. Prescription Medications

If over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger and more effective medications, including:

Topical retinoids to unclog pores and reduce inflammation
Antibiotics to fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce swelling
Oral contraceptives or spironolactone to regulate hormones in women with hormonal acne
Isotretinoin (Accutane) for severe, cystic acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments

These prescription options are carefully monitored by your dermatologist to minimize side effects and ensure the best outcome.

3. In-Office Procedures

In addition to medications, dermatologists offer a range of professional procedures to speed up acne healing and prevent scarring. These may include:

Chemical peels to exfoliate the skin and reduce breakouts
Comedone extractions to safely remove blackheads and whiteheads
Laser or light therapy to reduce bacteria and inflammation
Steroid injections to quickly reduce the size and pain of deep cysts

These treatments can provide faster results than at-home remedies, especially when acne is resistant to medication.

4. Scar Prevention and Skin Care Guidance

Acne isn’t just about the breakouts—it’s also about what’s left behind. Dermatologists help patients:

Prevent acne scars by managing inflammation early
Fade existing dark spots and discoloration with targeted treatments
Choose the right skin care products to support healing and avoid flare-ups
Understand what’s helping—and what may be hurting—their skin

With expert guidance, patients can feel empowered to care for their skin properly and avoid common acne myths that may do more harm than good.

Contact Bahr Dermatology to learn more about our acne treatments.