External treatments play the strongest role in clearing acne for most people. Benzoyl peroxide, a topical medicine, remains a leading option for reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Retinoid-based products, including adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene, and the newer trifarotene, help keep pores clear and calm inflammation. They can be used alone or together with benzoyl peroxide to boost results.
Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline can also be effective, especially for moderate to severe cases. They should be used judiciously to avoid the emergence of resistant bacteria. A strategy that combines oral antibiotics with topical benzoyl peroxide is often used to lower resistance risk while improving outcomes.
For individuals whose acne remains stubborn despite topical therapy, isotretinoin may be considered. This medication is typically reserved for severe or persistent acne and is managed by specialists due to its potential side effects and required monitoring. It has a strong impact on acne activity and can lead to long-term improvement in many patients.
Hormonal treatments can be beneficial when acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations. Options such as certain birth control pills or spironolactone may improve acne in appropriate patients. In addition to these systemic approaches, other effective topical ingredients include salicylic acid and azelaic acid, which work to exfoliate and reduce inflammation while addressing bacterial factors in the skin.
Procedural options like chemical peels, lasers, and light-based therapies have not demonstrated consistent, proven effectiveness for acne in all settings. Ongoing research is needed to determine their exact role and to identify which patients might benefit most. Related dietary advice and dietary supplements are not currently emphasized in standard acne treatment guidelines. This emphasis reflects a body of evidence that suggests diet has limited impact on acne for most people, though individual responses can vary.
There is ongoing discussion about the role of natural remedies and lifestyle factors in acne management. Some patients wonder whether items such as mint tea or other herbal approaches can influence acne outcomes. While these options are often discussed anecdotally, they are not supported by strong clinical guidance at this time and should not replace evidence-based treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals. The overall message remains clear: effective acne care is best guided by dermatology-informed strategies and regular follow-up to tailor therapy to the individual’s skin response.