Acne

What causes acne?

Acne develops when oil and dead skin cells clog pores. Inflammation, bacteria normally found on the skin, and hormones can also contribute. Acne is not simply a sign of dirty skin, and harsh scrubbing can make irritation worse.

Breakouts may include blackheads (open clogged pores), whiteheads (closed clogged pores), inflamed bumps, pus-filled pimples, and deeper painful nodules or cysts. Acne can affect the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

How does Dr. Hanson treat acne?

Dr. Hanson considers your acne type, severity, skin sensitivity, previous treatments, and medical history. Your plan may include a combination of treatments:

• Topical prescriptions: Retinoids such as tretinoin help keep pores from clogging. Benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and other topical medicines may help treat breakouts. Topical antibiotics are used with benzoyl peroxide to help limit antibiotic resistance.
• Oral medications: For inflammatory acne, an oral antibiotic such as doxycycline may be used for a limited time together with benzoyl peroxide and other topical treatment. Antibiotics are not intended as a long-term maintenance treatment.
• Hormonal treatment: For appropriate patients, spironolactone or certain combined birth control pills may help with hormonally influenced acne. Dr. Hanson reviews benefits, risks, and medical suitability before prescribing.
• Isotretinoin: This oral medication may be recommended for severe acne, acne causing scarring, or acne that has not improved with other treatment. It requires close monitoring and strict pregnancy-prevention precautions for patients who can become pregnant.

Tell Dr. Hanson if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy, because some acne medications are not safe during pregnancy.

How long does acne treatment take?

Improvement takes time. Many patients begin to see fewer breakouts after 6–8 weeks, while fuller improvement may take several months. Results vary. Follow-up visits help Dr. Hanson adjust treatment, manage irritation, and develop a maintenance plan to reduce future breakouts.

Can treatment help prevent acne scars?

Early treatment of active acne can reduce the risk of new scars, especially when breakouts are deep or painful. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples. Seek care promptly if acne is leaving scars, causing persistent dark marks, or affecting your confidence.

Flat red or brown marks after acne are different from permanent changes in skin texture. Once active acne is controlled, Dr. Hanson can assess existing scars and discuss appropriate options. Procedures may improve the appearance of some scars, but cannot guarantee complete removal.

What role do facials, chemical peels, and lasers play?

Selected procedures may be considered as an addition to medical treatment or for specific concerns after evaluation. They do not replace a prescription acne plan when one is needed. The benefits and risks depend on the procedure, acne type, and skin tone; facials and lasers are not a guaranteed cure for acne or scars.

How can I care for acne-prone skin?

• Use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs.
• Choose a moisturizer and sunscreen labeled noncomedogenic, meaning less likely to clog pores. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
• Use medications as directed and ask for help if dryness or irritation develops.
• Avoid picking pimples and changing products too often.
• Continue your recommended maintenance treatment, even after acne improves.

Effective skin care does not have to be expensive. Dr. Hanson can help you choose products that fit your skin and treatment plan.

Where can I schedule an acne evaluation?

Holly Hanson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, evaluates and treats acne at her Eden Prairie and Maple Grove, Minnesota, offices, serving patients throughout the Minneapolis–St. Paul area.

Book your appointment using the online tool or by phone.

Acne treatment resources

For more information about the evidence behind acne care, see the American Academy of Dermatology’s acne treatment guideline and patient guide to acne diagnosis and treatment.