Which Acne Treatment Is the Best?

Acne is a complex condition with a variety of contributing factors and triggers. While some mild cases can be treated with good hygiene and over-the-counter products, the journey to clear skin can be long for patients with moderate and severe acne. 

We understand the frustration that comes with trying to manage difficult breakouts. Study after study has confirmed that acne affects more than one’s appearance; it can also affect your mood, self-esteem, self-image and quality of life. Studies also show that the longer acne lasts, the more likely it is to take an emotional toll.

Understandably, the patients we see at Kaya Cosmedica are eager to treat their acne as early and effectively as possible. This often leads to the question: which acne treatment is the best for me? 

No single solution is right for every patient, which is why our South Melbourne skin clinic offers a curated selection of acne treatments. Dr PK and her team will assess your skin and develop a customised treatment plan to clear your complexion.

Exploring Your Acne Treatment Options

Skincare Products

The first line of defence against spots and oily skin is optimising your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like retinoids, niacinamide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, and swap out pore-clogging products for non-comedogenic moisturisers and makeup. 

Many of these ingredients are available in non-prescription formulations that can easily be found in your favourite store. For higher concentrations of clinical-grade active ingredients, invest in high-quality cosmeceuticals found in cosmetic clinics like Kaya Cosmedica. Some of our favourite brands are Synergie and Skinceuticals.

A good skincare routine may be enough to clear a mild case of acne. For more challenging cases, a targeted skincare routine should accompany in-office treatments and/or prescription medications.

Nutraceuticals

Adding premium nutritional supplements to your daily routine can enhance the benefits of a healthy diet and a medical acne treatment plan. Purify Body Cleanse by Intrametica is a superfood supplement containing bioactive botanicals clinically proven to support detoxification in the gut and liver. By enhancing the body’s natural processes, Purify Body Cleanse helps deliver clearer, brighter skin from within.

Prescribed Medications

If lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter solutions are ineffective, prescription medications may be the next step to explore. Prescription acne treatments may be administered topically (applied to the skin) or orally (taken by mouth). Dr Khinda can prescribe these medications for patients requiring a more targeted approach.

Topical Acne Medications

Mild acne may be treated with topical antibiotic medications that target certain types of skin bacteria. Topical retinoids may also be incorporated to decrease sebum production, increase skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation. The side effects associated with these products may include dryness, redness and irritation, so regular use of moisturisers and sun protection is recommended.

Oral Acne Medications

Moderate to severe acne can be treated with stronger prescription medications, many of which are taken orally. These include antibiotics, retinoids and hormonal treatments. In general, oral medications have more side effects than topical options, and they are not recommended for all patients. Some oral medications can be used in combination with topical medication for a multifaceted treatment approach.

Professional Skincare & Resurfacing Treatments

Cosmeceuticals and skin treatments aim to decongest the skin, remove excess oil and dead skin cells, and reduce skin inflammation whilst optimising healing.  This leads to acne clearance, improved skin texture and overall appearance

We utilise the following rejuvenating and resurfacing techniques for acne-prone skin: 

Synergie Skin

Synergie Skin’s cosmeceuticals are formulated without artificial fragrances and colours, making it a less irritating option for sensitive and acne-prone complexions. The products are non-comedogenic and rich in ingredients that improve skin health, including antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients.

Medifacials

Our medifacials are results-driven facials that contain powerful, targeted ingredients designed to enhance skin health and minimise blemishes. Our dermal therapist performs medifacials tailored to acne-prone skin and performs extractions if required.

Chemical Peels

Our medical peels use chemical solutions to remove the outer layers of the skin. A series of BHA (beta hydroxy acid) peels containing salicylic acid can improve mild to moderate cases of acne on the face or body. Depending on the patient’s needs, specific peels will be chosen. All skin types can be treated.

Microneedling

Microneedling  (also called skin needling or collagen induction therapy) uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers a wound-healing response that releases growth factors and increases collagen production, which can help improve breakouts and acne scarring. At Kaya Cosmedica, we perform microneedling with Dermapen 4  or Dermafrac. We also offer RF microneedling with our Genius RF system.

Dermafrac combines microneedling with a gentle microdermabrasion and the simultaneous infusion of targeted serums. For patients with acne-prone skin, we utilise the Clarifying serum containing salicylic acid to open blocked pores and neutralise P. acnes bacteria. Microneedling helps the serum reach the optimal depth in the skin for maximum absorption and effect.

Light Treatments

Lasers and other light-based therapies can reduce acne, especially when incorporated into a comprehensive acne treatment plan. For the best results, most people need a series of treatments spread out over time, along with once or twice-yearly follow-up treatments for maintenance.

At Kaya Cosmedica, we offer the following options:

Light Treatments – LED Therapy
Omnilux LED therapy treats mild to moderate acne by delivering precise wavelengths of light into the skin. Omnilux Blue (415nm) emits blue light that targets P. acnes bacteria to reduce breakouts, while Omnilux Revive (633nm) emits red light that calms inflammation. Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated positive results from this combination.

Light Treatments – BBL Forever Clear
Sciton’s BroadBand Light technology delivers the most powerful IPL treatments available. BBL photofacials reduce breakouts by eliminating acne-causing bacteria and diminishing acne-associated redness for healthy, luminous skin. Treatment sessions are quick and convenient, with no required downtime.

Determining the Optimal Treatment Approach

The best path to clear skin is a custom regimen designed by a medical professional. When you come to Kaya Cosmedica for a consultation, we will assess the type of acne you have and where your breakouts appear. We will also take note of:

• Your skin type
• Your age
• Your lifestyle habits
• Your current skincare routine
• Any treatments you’ve tried previously 
• Any co-occurring skin concerns you may have

This helps us create a personalised, safe and effective treatment plan.

A Clearer Complexion Begins With a Consultation

Get the care you need with providers you can trust at Kaya Cosmedica. Whether you have mild, moderate or severe breakouts, we’ll help you discover a personalised regimen of treatments that deliver the clear, healthy skin you’ve always wanted.  Book a consult to learn more.