Top 3 Acne Treatments I Recommend to My Patients
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Acne doesn’t care how old you are. Whether you're 15 or 55, breakouts can affect your confidence, your skin health, and your day-to-day peace of mind. At Alan Health, we believe effective treatment starts with understanding what’s really going on beneath the surface—and matching you with a solution designed for your skin.
Let’s talk about the treatments I most often recommend to my patients: oral spironolactone, our custom Acne Cream with Tretinoin and Clindamycin, and for post-breakout care, our Spot Corrector. Each targets different aspects of acne, and choosing the right one depends on your skin, your hormones, and your goals.
1. Spironolactone: For Hormonal Acne That Won’t Quit
Spironolactone is a prescription oral medication that lowers androgen (male hormone) levels in the body. Since these hormones often trigger excess oil production, reducing them can dramatically cut down on acne—especially cystic breakouts along the jawline and chin.
Why choose it:
- You have hormonal acne or deep, painful cysts
- Your breakouts worsen around your cycle
- You've tried topicals without long-term success
What to expect: Improvements often begin around 4–6 weeks, with clearer, calmer skin by months two to three. It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a proven long-term solution for many women.
2. Acne Cream (Tretinoin 0.1% / Clindamycin 2%): The Dual-Action Powerhouse
This topical cream fights acne on two fronts: Tretinoin, a retinoid, increases cell turnover to prevent clogged pores and smooth skin texture, while Clindamycin, a topical antibiotic, reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
Why choose it:
- You have surface-level breakouts, whiteheads, or blackheads
- You want targeted spot or full-face treatment
- You’re ready to build a consistent nighttime skincare routine
What to expect: You might see some initial dryness or purging—both normal signs it’s working. Stick with it, and most users see major improvements by the 8-week mark, including fewer breakouts, smoother skin, and fading of dark spots over time.
3. The Spot Corrector: Fade the Marks Acne Leaves Behind
Once the breakouts are under control, you might be left with dark spots or uneven tone. That’s where our Spot Corrector comes in. This targeted cream blends Azelaic Acid 15%, Tranexamic Acid 4%, and Niacinamide 1% to reduce hyperpigmentation, calm inflammation, and even out skin tone.
Why choose it:
- You have post-acne marks or stubborn discoloration
- You want a non-retinoid, non-hydroquinone brightener
- You’re looking for a treatment that works for all skin types
What to expect: Most people see early improvements in 4–8 weeks, with continued brightening over time. It’s gentle enough for daily use and effective enough to be part of your long-term skin routine.
My Take as a Dermatologist
Acne is complex. Sometimes one treatment does the trick. Other times, combining an oral and topical option works best. What matters most is having a plan that’s based on you—your hormones, your skin type, your lifestyle.
That’s why we offer more than just a product. You get real provider guidance, safe prescriptions, and follow-ups to adjust your care as your skin changes.
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