Advancements in Dermatology treats acne in many different ways, depending on the needs and severity of the condition.

What is Acne?

Acne occurs when the pores become plugged. Blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules), occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and  upper arms. 

Acne can be a cause of stress, affect self-confidence, and when it is severe and untreated, may lead to permanent scarring.  To avoid scarring, early acne treatment is important.

What are my treatment options?

Treatment takes time. Trial and error is the honest approach. If your acne has not improved after 6 to 8 weeks, we may need to change your treatment.  The following treatment options are available at Advancements in Dermatology:

Prescription topical creams, gels or lotions with Vitamin A acid or Benzoyl Peroxide to help unblock the pores and reduce bacteria. (These products may cause some drying and peeling, but are highly effective)

Acne treatments provided in our office include chemical peels, acne facials, extractions, and kenalog (cortisone) injections.

Antibiotics, such as Tetracycline, Doxycyline, Minocycline, or Aldactone, may be taken orally. Medication is often prescribed for moderate or severe cases, especially when acne is seen on the back or chest.

Birth Control pills have a significant improvement on acne. Oral antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Women who are taking birth control pills may notice a significant improvement in their acne.

ClearLight system is a therapeutic light that treats moderate inflammatory acne quickly, easily, and painlessly. ClearLight destroys the most common bacteria that cause acne within the skin. Results may be seen in 4 weeks. This drug-free treatment is one of the safest acne treatments available. With ClearLight, there are no side effects. The treatment should be done twice a week for 4 weeks.

Photodynamic Acne Treatment is a new procedure used to treat resistant acne as well as older acne scars, leaving skin smoother. This process begins with an agent, Levulan (amino levulanic acid, or ALA), applied to the skin, then activated with specific wavelengths of light.

The Levulan agent targets all acne glands, acne rosacea (redness), and benign bumps (AK’s or actinic keratosis’) on the skin. This treatment decreases skin oiliness, and the appearance of pores is minimized. 3-4 treatments are recommended at 2-3 week intervals to obtain optimal results. Because PDT is a topical procedure, there are no systemic side effects. 


Accutane may be used to help with severe acne. Isotretinoin (Accutane) is used when acne does not respond well to other treatments. Patients require education on the side effects to Isotretinoin. Frequent follow-up visits are necessary to monitor side effects. This drug can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Emergency Acne Treatment:

What can be done to get a problem acne flare under control quickly?

• Kenalog injections are available in our clinics if you have an outbreak at a sincerely inappropriate time and need to have your skin at it’s best in a hurry.

Acne prevention

• A proper skincare regimen is critical in preventing unwanted acne and blemishes. Skin Speaks Spa M.D. offers many products for use in maintaining healthy skin.