What does a dermatologist's acne treatment plan include?

A plan starts from severity, which DermNet says is classified as mild, moderate or severe.

What a mild-acne plan can hold

For mild acne, DermNet lists topical anti-acne agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and tretinoin or adapalene gel, along with some antibiotics (clindamycin).

That is a starting list for the mild end. Your dermatologist matches the pieces to your skin.

Scars and the wider treatment literature

For more detail, see the AAD page on acne scars: consultation and treatment and a review titled Exploring Acne Treatments: From Pathophysiological Mechanisms to Emerging Therapies.

When the plan changes

The mild list above changes once acne is classed as moderate or severe. Ask your dermatologist where your acne sits.