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Medical Acne Treatment: Beyond Topical Creams

Why One-Size-Fits-All Acne Treatment Fails—And What Actually Works

Acne isn't a single condition, it's a symptom of multiple underlying processes. Successful treatment requires identifying which factors drive YOUR acne, then addressing them systematically. This is medical acne management, not trial-and-error with drugstore products.

Available at our Bedford, NH & Lynnfield, MA locations

The Four Pillars of Acne Pathogenesis:

1. Excess Sebum Production

  • Driven by: Androgens (testosterone, DHT), insulin/IGF-1, genetics[1]

  • Results in: Oily skin, clogged pores, inflammatory lesions

2. Abnormal Keratinization (Clogged Pores)

  • Caused by: Dead skin cells don't shed normally, creating plugs[2]

  • Results in: Comedones (blackheads/whiteheads), microcomedones

3. Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) Bacterial Overgrowth

  • Anaerobic bacteria thrives in clogged, oil-rich follicles[3]

  • Results in: Inflammatory papules, pustules, cysts

4. Inflammation

  • Immune response to bacteria and follicular rupture[4]

  • Results in: Red, painful lesions, post-inflammatory marks, scarring

​

Effective acne treatment must address ALL relevant pillars for YOUR specific case.

PM Aesthetics Acne Treatment Protocol:

PHASE 1: Medical Assessment & Classification

Every acne patient receives:

  • Acne Grade Classification: Mild (grade 1-2), moderate (grade 3), severe (grade 4)[5]

  • Lesion Type Analysis: Comedonal vs. inflammatory vs. cystic vs. mixed

  • Trigger Identification: Diet, hormones, stress, products, medications

  • Scarring Assessment: Active scarring vs. post-inflammatory marks

  • Previous Treatment Audit: What's been tried, what failed, why

PHASE 2: Medical-Grade Skincare Foundation

ZO Complexion Clearing Program (Our Gold Standard)

The most comprehensive acne skincare system available, addressing all four pillars:

​

1. Complexion Renewal Pads:

  • Salicylic acid 2% (keratolytic—unclogs pores)[6]

  • Glycolic acid 5% (exfoliates, improves cell turnover)[7]

  • Reduces comedones and prevents new formation

 

2. Complexion Clearing Masque:​

  • Sulfur 10% (antibacterial, oil-absorbing)[8]

  • Kaolin clay (draws out impurities)

  • Weekly treatment for deep pore cleansing

 

3. Exfoliating Cleanser:

Clears away surface oil and impurities without leaving skin feeling stripped or dry

 

4. Exfoliating Polish - Gently removes dead skin cells to instantly reveal smoother, softer + glowing skin

Complete ZO Acne Protocol:

  • Morning:  Complexion Renewal Pads   → Oil-free moisturizer → SPF

  • Evening: Complexion Renewal Pads → Retinol (if tolerated) → Oil-free moisturizer

  • Weekly: Complexion Clearing Masque

 

Evidence: ZO protocol shows 60-75% reduction in lesion count at 12 weeks[9]

 

Adjunct Skincare:

Alastin Gentle Cleanser:

  • Non-foaming, non-irritating cleansing

  • Preserves barrier while removing excess oil

  • Essential morning/evening first step

 

Serums:

  • Daily Power Defense - ZO

  • Restorative Skin Complex - Alastin

 

Clear Skin by Nutrafol (Oral Supplement):

  • Saw palmetto (anti-androgenic)[12]

  • Marine collagen peptides (barrier support)

  • Antioxidants and adaptogens (reduce inflammation)

  • Function: Addresses internal hormonal and inflammatory triggers

Dosing: 4 capsules daily with food
Evidence: 54% reduction in lesion count at 12 weeks in clinical trial[13]

PHASE 3: In-Office Medical Treatments

Once skincare establishes foundation (4-8 weeks):

 

Treatment Option A: Salt Facial for Active Acne (Mild to Moderate)

3-Step Salt Facial Protocol:

 

Step 1: Medical-Grade Sea Salt Exfoliation

  • Natural sea salt crystals exfoliate at level 4-6 (customized to skin type)

  • Removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, reduces surface bacteria[14]

  • 2-3 passes (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) for even coverage


Step 2: Ultrasound Infusion with Mandelic Acid DermMasque

  • 7.5% mandelic acid (antibacterial, gentle exfoliant ideal for acne)[15]

  • Ultrasound cavitation drives active ingredients deep into dermis

  • Creates space between cells for enhanced absorption

​

Step 3: Blue LED Phototherapy

  • 415nm wavelength targets C. acnes bacteria (which produce porphyrins absorbing blue light)[16]

  • Reduces bacterial count by 60-70% per session[17]

  • 9-minute PDT (photodynamic therapy) cycle

  • Zero downtime, immediate antibacterial effect

 

Salt Facial Acne Protocol:

  • Initial Series: 4-8 treatments (every 10-14 days)

  • Maintenance: Monthly treatments

  • Results: 40-60% reduction in active lesions[18]

  • Best for: Mild to moderate acne, oily skin, large pores

 

Treatment Option B: Chemical Peels (Moderate Inflammatory Acne)

VI Peel® Purify (Acne-Specific Formula):

  • Salicylic acid 14% (deep pore penetration)[19]

  • Retinoic acid (normalizes keratinization)[20]

  • Benzoyl peroxide 5% (antibacterial)[21]

  • Vitamin C (anti-inflammatory, healing)[22]

​

Protocol:

  • 1 peel every 4-6 weeks

  • Series of 3-4 for best results

  • 5-7 day controlled peel/flaking

  • 50-70% reduction in lesion count[23]

 

Treatment Option C: RF Microneedling (Acne + Scarring)

 

When to Use RF Microneedling for Acne:

  • Acne scars (ice pick, rolling, boxcar scars)

  • Large pores from chronic acne

  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

  • Moderate to severe inflammatory acne (after acute phase controlled)

 

Device Selection:

  • Cutera Secret RF: Precision depth control (0.5-3.5mm), excellent for facial acne scarring

  • Morpheus8: Deeper penetration (up to 8mm) for body acne, severe scarring, or cheek fat pads

 

Protocol:

  • Acne Scarring: 3-4 sessions (6-8 weeks apart)

  • Active Acne: Only after inflammation controlled (otherwise worsens)

  • Parameters: Start conservative (0.5-1.5mm depth), increase subsequent sessions

  • Post-Treatment: Benev Exosomes for enhanced healing and reduced PIH risk

 

Results:

  • 40-70% improvement in scar depth[24]

  • 30-50% reduction in pore size[25]

  • Progressive improvement over 6 months

 

CRITICAL CAUTION: RF microneedling during active cystic acne can spread bacteria and worsen infection. We treat active lesions FIRST with Salt Facial/chemical peels, THEN address scarring with RF microneedling once inflammation controlled.

 

Treatment Option D: Combination Protocol (Most Severe Cases)

For grade 3-4 acne with scarring:

​

Phase 1 (Months 1-3): Control Active Acne

  • ZO Complexion Clearing Program + Nutrafol Clear Skin (daily)

  • Salt Facial every 2 weeks (6 treatments total)

  • Goal: Reduce active lesions by 60-80%

 

Phase 2 (Months 4-9): Address Scarring

  • Continue ZO skincare + Nutrafol (daily)

  • RF Microneedling with Exosomes (3 sessions, 6-8 weeks apart)

  • Salt Facial monthly maintenance between RF sessions

  • Goal: 50-70% improvement in scarring

 

Phase 3 (Months 10+): Maintain Clear Skin

  • Medical-grade skincare (lifelong)

  • Monthly Salt Facial or quarterly chemical peel

  • RF microneedling annually if needed for texture refinement

PHASE 4: Lifestyle & Internal Factors

Acne isn't just skin-deep, internal factors drive 50% of cases[26]:

​

Dietary Modifications (Evidence-Based):

 

Foods to Minimize:

  • High-glycemic carbohydrates (white bread, sugar, processed foods) → Spike insulin/IGF-1, increase sebum[27]

  • Dairy products (especially skim milk) → Contain hormones and IGF-1 that stimulate oil glands[28]

  • Whey protein supplements → Highly insulinogenic, often contaminated with anabolic steroids[29]

 

Foods to Emphasize:

  • Low-glycemic vegetables and whole grains

  • Omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory)[30]

  • Zinc-rich foods (oysters, pumpkin seeds, beef) → Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory[31]

  • Probiotic foods (yogurt, kefir, kimchi) → Gut-skin axis modulation[32]

 

Hydration:

  • 80-100oz water daily for optimal sebum consistency and elimination

 

Stress Management:

  • Chronic stress elevates cortisol → increases oil production and inflammation[33]

  • Techniques: Exercise, meditation, adequate sleep, therapy

 

Sleep Optimization:

  • 7-9 hours nightly for optimal hormone regulation

  • Poor sleep increases inflammatory cytokines worsening acne[34]

PHASE 5: When to Consider Medical Referral

PM Aesthetics treats mild to moderate acne comprehensively. We refer to dermatology for:

 

Isotretinoin (Accutane) Candidates:

  • Severe cystic acne (grade 4)

  • Moderate acne not responding to 6 months aggressive topical + in-office treatment

  • Acne causing severe scarring despite treatment

  • Psychological distress from acne

 

We maintain relationships with trusted dermatologists for seamless referral when oral medication indicated.

 

Post-Inflammatory Marks vs. Scars:

 

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):

  • Flat brown marks where lesions were

  • Fade over 3-12 months with treatment[35]

  • Treatment: Chemical peels, ZO retinol, vitamin C, hydroquinone, IPL

 

Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE):

  • Flat red/pink marks where lesions were

  • Vascular response, not pigment

  • Treatment: Laser Genesis + IPL, time, barrier support

 

True Acne Scars:

  • Indented (atrophic) or raised (hypertrophic) texture changes

  • Permanent without intervention

  • Treatment: RF microneedling

 

We assess each mark/scar individually and recommend appropriate treatment, no assumptions.

Realistic Timeline & Expectations:

What Acne Treatment Can Achieve:

  • 60-80% reduction in active lesions (3-6 months)

  • Prevention of new scarring with controlled inflammation

  • 40-70% improvement in existing scars (6-12 months with RF microneedling)

  • Improved skin texture, reduced pore size, clearer complexion

  • Long-term clear skin with maintenance protocol

​

What It Cannot Achieve:

  • Instant clearing (requires 3-6 month commitment)

  • 100% elimination of all scars (realistic goal: 50-70% improvement)

  • Success without lifestyle modifications (diet/stress matter)

  • Permanent results without ongoing skincare maintenance

 

The Bottom Line:

If you're tired of:

  • Trying random products from TikTok or drugstores

  • Dermatologists prescribing Accutane as first-line treatment

  • Treatments that work for 2 months then stop

  • Being told 'it's just hormones' with no solutions

 

PM Aesthetics offers a different approach: medical-grade skincare, in-office treatments targeting multiple acne pathways, internal optimization, and realistic timelines.

PM Aesthetics: Where medicine comes first, sales never happen under pressure, and your face is treated as the complex anatomical structure it is - not a canvas for trendy treatments.​

 

We are the ethical alternative to commodity medical aesthetics.

REFERENCES & CLINICAL EVIDENCE

​

[1] Zouboulis, C.C., et al. (2014). "Endocrinology of the sebaceous gland." Endocrine Reviews, 35(2), 247-288.
[2] Kurokawa, I., et al. (2009). "New developments in antimicrobial acne therapy." Dermatology, 218(2), 106-110.
[3] Bhate, K., & Williams, H.C. (2013). "Epidemiology of acne vulgaris." British Journal of Dermatology, 168(3), 474-485.
[4] Gollnick, H., et al. (2003). "Management of acne." Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 17(Suppl 2), 1-126.
[5] Gollnick, H.P. (2015). "From new findings in acne pathogenesis to new approaches in treatment." Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 29(Suppl 5), 1-7.
[6] Kornhauser, A., et al. (2010). "Applications of hydroxy acids." Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 3, 135-142.
[7] Tang, S.C., & Yang, J.H. (2018). "Dual effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on skin." Molecules, 23(4), 863.
[8] Gupta, A.K., & Nicol, K. (2004). "The use of sulfur in dermatology." Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 3(4), 427-431.
[9] ZO Skin Health. (2021). "Acne Protocol Clinical Data." Internal study report.
[10] Leyden, J.J. (2001). "A review of benzoyl peroxide." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 45(1), S59-S61.
[11] Thielitz, A., & Gollnick, H. (2008). "Topical retinoids in acne." Dermatology, 216(1), 2-12.
[12] Prager, N., et al. (2002). "A randomized trial of saw palmetto." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 8(2), 143-152.
[13] Nutrafol. (2023). "Clear Skin Clinical Trial Results." Product monograph.
[14] Lee, S.J., et al. (2010). "Role of sea salt in wound healing." Wound Repair and Regeneration, 18(2), 113-120.
[15] Kessler, E., et al. (2008). "Comparison of alpha-hydroxy acids." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 7(1), 17-22.
[16] Kawada, A., et al. (2002). "Acne phototherapy with blue light." Journal of Dermatological Science, 30(2), 129-135.
[17] Papageorgiou, P., et al. (2000). "Phototherapy with blue light." British Journal of Dermatology, 142(5), 973-978.
[18] SaltMed. (2021). "Salt Facial Acne Treatment Outcomes." Technical bulletin.
[19] Berson, D.S., et al. (2008). "Salicylic acid peels in acne." Dermatologic Surgery, 34(8), 989-995.
[20] Mukherjee, S., et al. (2006). "Retinoids in treatment of skin aging." Clinical Interventions in Aging, 1(4), 327-348.
[21] Zouboulis, C.C. (2004). "Exploration of retinoid activity." Experimental Dermatology, 13(Suppl 4), 28-35.
[22] Pullar, J.M., et al. (2017). "Roles of vitamin C in skin health." Nutrients, 9(8), 866.
[23] VI Aesthetics. (2022). "VI Peel Purify Clinical Data." Product literature.
[24] Alexiades-Armenakas, M. (2010). "Fractional radiofrequency for acne scars." Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 42(3), 179-187.
[25] Gold, M.H., et al. (2012). "Fractional radiofrequency for facial rejuvenation." Dermatologic Surgery, 38(9), 1424-1432.
[26] Melnik, B.C. (2015). "Linking diet to acne metabolomics." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 8(9), 41-52.
[27] Smith, R.N., et al. (2007). "Diet and acne." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 57(2), 247-256.
[28] Adebamowo, C.A., et al. (2005). "High school dietary intake and teenage acne." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 52(2), 207-214.
[29] Silverberg, N.B. (2012). "Whey protein precipitating acne." Cutis, 90(2), 90-95.
[30] Jung, J.Y., et al. (2014). "Effect of omega-3 fatty acids." Lipids in Health and Disease, 13, 23.
[31] Dreno, B., et al. (2005). "Multicenter study of zinc gluconate." Dermatology, 210(4), 301-305.
[32] Bowe, W.P., & Logan, A.C. (2011). "Acne vulgaris, probiotics and gut-brain-skin axis." Gut Pathogens, 3(1), 1.
[33] Jović, A., et al. (2017). "Stress and acne." Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, 7(3), 53-55.
[34] O'Neill, A.M., & Gallo, R.L. (2018). "Sleep and immunity." Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 138(8), 1680-1684.
[35] Davis, E.C., & Callender, V.D. (2010). "Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 3(7), 20-31.

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Join Us on Your Aesthetic Journey

Every PM Aesthetics consultation begins with lifestyle assessment, not treatment sales. We evaluate sun protection, nutrition, sleep, stress, exercise, and other factors that determine 70-80% of aging outcomes. If your lifestyle foundation needs attention, we'll tell you, even if it means less treatment revenue for us. Medicine first, always.

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