Explore options for acne treatment, and how to tackle scars, pigmentation and freckles for clearer, healthier skin.
Get early access to new launches and promotions plus hints and tips on keeping your teeth healthy!
Still dealing with breakouts long after high school? You're not alone. Acne isn’t just a teenage problem. For many adults, it lingers or returns, bringing back all the same frustrations.
From occasional flare-ups to ongoing blemishes, scarring and pigmentation, acne can affect both your skin and your confidence.
With so many products promising results, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth is, the best treatment depends on your skin type, the cause of your acne, and how your skin responds. In this guide, we’ll break it down so you can make an informed decision for your own skin.
Acne doesn’t start on the surface. It begins deeper within the skin. When pores become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria, they create the perfect conditions for breakouts to form.
Hormones often play a major role, which is why acne tends to flare up during puberty, around menstrual cycles, or during other hormonal changes later in life.
External triggers also contribute. Stress, certain foods, and even sun exposure can aggravate existing acne or spark new breakouts. Prolonged exposure to UV rays, especially without sun protection, can make post-acne marks like pigmentation and freckles more visible, particularly on lighter skin tones.
For many people, treating acne isn’t just about clearing active breakouts. It also means addressing the marks and uneven skin tone that may remain long after the pimples have gone.
.png)
Sometimes, it’s the little things in daily life that quietly fuel acne flare-ups. Diet is a common factor: studies suggest that dairy and high-glycaemic foods (like white bread, sugary snacks and soft drinks) can increase sebum production and inflammation.
Stress also plays its part. Think of how often a big presentation or exam has coincided with a breakout.
Skincare habits can either help or hinder. Using harsh products or over-exfoliating strips the skin barrier, which may make acne worse. Sweat, not cleansing properly after exercise, and the temptation to pick at pimples also keep the cycle going.
While these factors don’t cause acne on their own, they can tip the balance for skin that’s already prone to breakouts.
.png)
Understanding what fuels acne is only half the story. The next step is exploring treatments and not every option is right for every type of breakout.
From everyday products you can buy at the pharmacy to prescription medications and professional in-clinic treatments, the best approach often depends on how severe your acne is and how your skin responds. Let’s look at the options, starting with what works for mild acne.
For many people with mild acne, starting with over-the-counter (OTC) products is a practical first step. These treatments target excess oil, bacteria, or inflammation:
These ingredients can make a real difference when used consistently and at the right concentrations. However, results vary across different skin types, and if acne is persistent or worsening, stronger medical options may be needed.
When acne is more severe, painful, or leading to scarring, a doctor may recommend prescription treatments. These work deeper and more aggressively than OTC products:
These options require medical supervision, as they can carry side effects and need tailored use. We always recommend getting a skincare specialist to observe and recommend next steps throughout the treatment process.
.png)
Professional treatments may be considered when breakouts or pigmentation persist, and may be helpful for some individuals depending on their skin concerns. Unlike beauty salon facials, medical-grade treatments use scientifically proven methods and are tailored to your skin’s needs. Here are common options:
Peels with ingredients like salicylic or glycolic acid help exfoliate the skin surface and may assist in managing excess oil. Beyond treating breakouts, chemical peels are sometimes used to improve surface texture and pigmentation. They may assist with the appearance of post-acne marks for some people.
Microneedling is a procedure used to stimulate skin renewal, and some studies suggest it may help improve the appearance of acne scars and uneven texture. Results vary depending on individual skin characteristics.
At Smile Place Dental & Aesthetics, we offer SQT bio-microneedling, a form of microneedling using spongilla spicules. This treatment is intended to support skin rejuvenation, and our clinicians can advise whether it is appropriate for your skin.
For certain types of scars, subcision (to break down scar tissue) and dermal fillers (to lift depressed scars) may be recommended as part of a broader treatment plan.
There isn’t a single answer, because every skin type and acne journey is different. The best treatment depends on whether your breakouts are mild or persistent, and whether scarring or pigmentation is also a concern.
Over-the-counter products and a steady routine may be helpful for some individuals. For others, prescription medication or professional in-clinic treatments make all the difference. What matters most is tackling acne early and with the right guidance to reduce the likelihood of persistent marks developing.
At Smile Place Dental & Aesthetics, we provide doctor-led skin treatments such as SQT bio-microneedling, which may help improve the appearance of acne scarring. If you’d like personalised advice, our clinicians can recommend options based on your individual needs. Find out more here.
Dr Arathy Rao has over a decade of experience with a range of skills and knowledge in all aspects of dentistry.
