Personalized Acne Treatment for Clearer, Healthier Skin
Acne treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every patient’s skin is different, which is why successful treatment starts with identifying the type of acne you have, its severity, your skin type, and your long-term goals.
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, Dr. Naomi Brooks and Physician Assistant Sammy Verner create personalized acne treatment plans for teenagers and adults. Whether you’re experiencing occasional breakouts, hormonal acne, cystic acne, or acne that hasn’t responded to over-the-counter products, we’ll recommend treatments designed to reduce active breakouts, prevent new blemishes, and minimize the risk of permanent scarring.
Our Approach to Acne Treatment
Successful acne treatment focuses on more than clearing existing pimples—it also prevents future breakouts and protects your skin from long-term damage.
Depending on your skin, your treatment plan may target:
- Excess oil production
- Clogged pores
- Acne-causing bacteria
- Inflammation
- Hormonal triggers
Because acne develops from several different causes, many patients achieve the best results with a combination of treatments.
It’s important to remember that acne improves gradually. Most patients begin noticing improvement after 6 to 8 weeks of consistent treatment.
Topical Acne Treatments
Topical medications are often the foundation of acne treatment and are commonly recommended for mild to moderate acne.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce acne-causing bacteria while decreasing inflammation. It is available in several strengths and is commonly combined with other acne medications to improve results and reduce antibiotic resistance.
Topical Retinoids
Prescription retinoids such as tretinoin and adapalene help prevent clogged pores, encourage healthy skin cell turnover, and improve acne over time.
Retinoids may also help fade post-acne discoloration and improve overall skin texture.
Topical Antibiotics
Prescription antibiotics such as clindamycin help reduce bacteria and inflammation. They are typically used together with benzoyl peroxide to improve effectiveness and reduce bacterial resistance.
Additional Prescription Medications
Depending on your skin, your dermatologist may also recommend medications such as:
- Azelaic acid
- Dapsone gel
- Other prescription topical therapies
We’ll select the combination that’s best suited to your skin type and acne severity.
Oral Acne Treatments
Patients with moderate to severe acne often benefit from oral medications in addition to topical treatments.
Oral Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics help reduce inflammation and acne-causing bacteria, making them especially effective for widespread inflammatory acne.
These medications are generally used for a limited time while topical treatments begin taking effect.
Hormonal Therapy for Women
Hormonal acne commonly affects the chin, jawline, and lower face.
For appropriate patients, treatment options may include:
- FDA-approved combination birth control pills
- Spironolactone
These medications help reduce the hormonal stimulation that contributes to acne breakouts.
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
For severe, cystic, scarring, or treatment-resistant acne, isotretinoin may be the most effective option.
Isotretinoin works by dramatically reducing oil production and addressing several causes of acne simultaneously.
Because this medication requires careful monitoring, patients participate in the iPLEDGE® safety program and attend regular follow-up visits throughout treatment.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the potential benefits, side effects, and whether isotretinoin is appropriate for your situation.
Cortisone Injections for Large Pimples
Painful acne cysts and nodules can often be treated with a small corticosteroid injection directly into the lesion.
These injections can rapidly reduce inflammation and discomfort, often shrinking large blemishes within a few days.
This treatment is commonly used for isolated cysts, especially before important events.
What Can You Expect During Treatment?
Acne treatment is a gradual process that requires consistency and patience.
During treatment:
- We’ll monitor your progress at regular follow-up visits.
- Your medications may be adjusted as your skin improves.
- Some temporary dryness or irritation is normal during the first few weeks.
- Most patients transition to a long-term maintenance routine once acne is under control.
Regular follow-up appointments allow us to optimize your treatment and minimize side effects.
Tips for Better Results
Along with prescription treatment, healthy skincare habits can significantly improve your results.
We recommend:
- Washing your face with a gentle cleanser twice daily
- Using fragrance-free moisturizer
- Avoiding harsh scrubs and astringents
- Choosing non-comedogenic makeup and sunscreen
- Avoiding picking or popping pimples
- Wearing daily SPF 30 or higher, since many acne medications increase sun sensitivity
Following your treatment plan consistently is one of the most important factors in achieving long-term success.
Acne Treatment During Pregnancy
Some acne medications are not safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, let your provider know before beginning treatment. We offer pregnancy-safe acne treatment options and will tailor your treatment plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Most patients begin noticing improvement within 6 to 8 weeks, although significant improvement often takes several months. Consistency is essential for the best results.
Will I need more than one medication?
Often, yes. Because acne develops from multiple causes, combining topical and oral treatments frequently provides better results than using a single medication.
Can acne come back after treatment?
Yes. Even after your skin clears, maintenance treatment is often recommended to help prevent future breakouts.
Is Accutane my only option for severe acne?
No. While isotretinoin is highly effective for many patients with severe acne, other treatments—including oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and combination topical medications—may also be appropriate depending on your condition.
Why should I see a dermatologist instead of treating acne myself?
Over-the-counter products can be helpful for mild acne, but persistent, painful, or scarring acne often requires prescription treatment. Early dermatologic care can help prevent permanent acne scars and shorten the overall course of treatment.
Schedule an Acne Treatment Consultation in Meridian, ID
If you’re ready to take control of your acne, our experienced dermatology team is here to help.
Dr. Naomi Brooks and Physician Assistant Sammy Verner provide customized acne treatment plans for teenagers and adults using the latest medical and prescription therapies. We proudly serve patients throughout Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, and the surrounding Treasure Valley.
To assess your options for acne treatment, request an appointment at Boise Dermatology & Medspa online or by phone at (208) 888-0660.