Acne treatment aims to reduce inflammatory and non-inflammatory skin breakouts, keep new spots under control and lower the risk of scarring. At Baltic American Clinic in Vilnius, a dermatovenereologist sees teenagers and adults with acne on the face, back, chest and other areas. After assessing the condition of the skin, the severity of the disease, previous treatment and individual risk factors, the doctor draws up a treatment and skincare plan.
Treatment is chosen according to the type and severity of acne and the characteristics of the patient’s skin.
The aim is to control inflammation in time and reduce the likelihood of long-term skin changes.
Breakouts that appear at different stages of life and the factors that affect them are assessed.
The effectiveness and tolerability of treatment are assessed and the plan is adjusted if needed.
When should you seek acne treatment?
A dermatologist consultation is recommended when spots keep coming back, get worse, cause discomfort or do not respond to your usual skincare.
- Inflamed spots. Red, painful or pus-filled spots appear on the skin.
- Deep nodules. Painful lumps form under the skin, increasing the risk of scarring.
- Persistent blackheads and whiteheads. Blocked pores and comedones remain despite skincare.
- Adult acne. Spots appear or recur from the age of 25 onwards.
- Back and chest acne. Breakouts have spread beyond the face.
- Acne scars. Indented or raised scars remain after inflammation.
- Pigmentation changes. Dark or reddish marks remain after spots.
- Ineffective treatment. The products you use do not give the expected result.
- Psychological discomfort. The condition of your skin lowers your self-confidence or disrupts daily life.
Early, appropriate treatment is especially important for deep inflammatory breakouts.
Which types of acne does a dermatologist treat?
Comedonal acne
This type is characterised by open and closed comedones, often called blackheads and whiteheads.
Treatment aims to reduce blocked pores and prevent inflammatory breakouts.
Inflammatory acne
It appears as red spots and pustules with inflammation of the surrounding tissue.
Treatment depends on the number, extent and severity of the breakouts.
Nodular acne
Deeper, painful nodules can damage the surrounding tissue and leave scars.
This type of acne often requires systemic treatment and closer monitoring by a dermatologist.
Adult acne
Acne may continue from adolescence or start in adulthood.
In some cases its course is influenced by hormonal factors, but not every patient needs hormone tests.
Acne and acne scars
Indented, raised or pigmented changes may remain after inflammatory breakouts.
It is important to distinguish active acne from its after-effects, because the treatment methods differ. Scar correction is usually planned once active inflammation is under control.
How does acne treatment work?
The doctor determines the type, severity and extent of acne and any signs of scarring.
Previous treatment, medicines, cosmetic products and, where relevant, signs of hormonal disorders are assessed.
Topical, systemic or combined treatment is discussed, along with its duration and possible side effects.
Results, how your skin tolerates the treatment and further prevention of relapse are assessed.
Acne treatment methods
Topical medical treatment
For mild to moderate acne, topical products are often prescribed, such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid or combinations of these.
Products are chosen according to the type of breakouts and the sensitivity of the skin.
Systemic treatment
For moderate or severe acne, oral medicines may be needed.
In certain cases isotretinoin is prescribed, but it requires a medical assessment, monitoring and strict adherence to pregnancy prevention requirements.
Adjusting your skincare
The doctor recommends cleansing, moisturising and sun protection products that suit the condition of your skin.
Aggressive scrubbing or frequently drying out the skin can increase irritation and make treatment harder to tolerate.
Correction of acne scars and marks
After active acne has been treated, laser or other procedures may be considered to reduce scars and pigmentation changes.
The choice of method depends on the type of scars, the skin phototype and other factors.
Are tests needed to treat acne?
In most cases, acne is diagnosed from the clinical appearance of the skin.
Further tests are ordered only when there are indications:
- Hormone tests when a hormonal imbalance is suspected.
- Liver function and lipid tests when certain systemic treatments need to be monitored.
- Other tests if the breakouts are unusual or another disease is suspected.
A universal package of hormone or other laboratory tests is not needed for every patient with acne.
How to prepare for a dermatologist consultation about acne
- Come without make-up or be ready to remove it.
- Bring a list of the medicines and skincare products you have used.
- Write down how long the breakouts have bothered you and which treatments you have already tried.
- Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, as this matters when choosing medicines.
- If your breakouts change, earlier photos may be helpful.
Frequently asked questions
Can acne be cured completely?
For many patients, treatment achieves long-term control of the disease, but in some people acne may come back. The results depend on the type and severity of acne and individual factors.
How long does it take for acne treatment to work?
The first changes are often assessed after a few weeks, while a clearer result may take several months. The duration depends on the chosen treatment.
Can spots get worse when treatment starts?
At first, some products may cause irritation, and breakouts do not always change evenly. If your condition gets markedly worse, you should consult your doctor.
Is acne caused by dirty skin?
No. Acne is not the result of poor hygiene. Washing too often or scrubbing aggressively can irritate the skin further.
Does diet affect acne?
In some patients, certain dietary factors may influence the course of acne, but there is no single diet that suits everyone. The basis of treatment is properly chosen medical treatment.
Do I need hormone tests?
Not always. They are considered when there are also menstrual cycle disorders, increased hair growth or other signs of a hormonal disorder.
Can I squeeze spots?
This is not recommended, as it can increase inflammation and the risk of infection and scarring.
Is isotretinoin prescribed to everyone with acne?
No. This medicine is prescribed when there are appropriate indications, after weighing the benefits and risks and the necessary safety measures.
Do acne scars disappear on their own?
Superficial marks may fade over time, but true indented or raised scars usually do not disappear completely on their own.
Can laser treatment replace acne medication?
Not in all cases. Laser procedures can be an additional method for certain problems, but treatment of active acne is chosen according to clinical indications.
Can acne be treated during pregnancy?
Yes, but not all acne medicines are safe during pregnancy. Treatment must be chosen by a doctor.
Do I need a referral for acne treatment?
No, you do not need a referral for a paid dermatovenereologist consultation.
Price of acne treatment
The price of acne treatment depends on the dermatovenereologist consultation, the individually prescribed treatment and any need for additional tests or procedures. Services provided at the clinic are charged according to the Baltic American Clinic price list in force.