New York, NY
A 38-year-old female asked about a 12-year-old female:
my 13 yr old daughter has acne (mild to severe) and i was wondering if there is any treatment, with a dermatologist, that can get rid of all her acne?
4 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in

Dr. Cheryl Coldwater answered
Pediatrics 38 years experience
Yes: Dermatologists use a variety of different medications to help teens with acne. Since a lot of the problem is due to changing hormones, some acne is common until those hormones stabilize. Keeping her skin clean with a gentle facial wash and avoiding any picking or popping of pimples will definitely help. See your doctor or a dermatologist for medication treatment.
3813 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Cheryl Coldwater commented
Pediatrics 38 years experience
Provided original answer
Improved, not completely "cured".
Aug 6, 2014

Dr. Craig MacArthur answered
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 34 years experience
Improved yes--All no: There are several treatments that can improve acne, but most individuals continue to have acne despite treatments. OTC Benzoyl peroxide is useful for mild acne. If acne is more severe, the prescribing of synthetic topical retinoids (like adapalene) is frequently effective at improving symptoms. Severe cystic acne is frequently treated with oral isotretinoin. Antibiotics are occasionally used.
3813 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Gloria Lopez commented
Pediatrics 44 years experience
Isotretinoin should only be considered as the last and very desperate resource. There are numerous and serious side effects.
Aug 6, 2014

Dr. Lori Semel answered
Pediatrics 35 years experience
No: Treating acne is an ongoing thing. There is no magic cure but there are many treatments, starting with good washing of the area with a medicated soap. Benzoyl peroxide treatment can be applied twice - three times daily to start. Consult with your pediatrician or dermatologist, there are many more available treatments.
3813 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. James Ferguson answered
Pediatrics 46 years experience
All ????: You may be able to find a doc/dermatologist that can work with you to control it. You may even have long periods when it looks clear. However, this is not a simple process.While some are affected only for a few years as teen, a subset will battle acne well into their 30's and beyond.Find a doc you can work with and hope your teen is willing to follow the skin care plan you come up with.
734 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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