Treat acne before it scars
What it is
Effective treatment exists and works best early. Scarring is permanent; acne is not.
Start preparing
- Start with a pharmacy benzoyl peroxide or adapalene and give it a full 8–12 weeks before judging.
- Gentle washing twice a day; scrubbing makes it worse.
- Ask the family doctor for a dermatology referral if there are painful lumps or any scarring.
When to check with a professional
Deep painful spots, marks that stay after the spot heals, or acne that is affecting mood or school attendance are a good reason to see a doctor rather than wait it out.
Sources
- Bright Futures periodicity schedule — American Academy of Pediatrics
Compiled with AI assistance from the public sources listed above. Not yet reviewed by a clinician — check anything important against the source, with Tipat Halav or with your doctor.