Skin conditions
Acne & Acne Scar Treatment in Salem
Acne is one of the most common skin problems, and it is very treatable. The earlier active acne is brought under control, the fewer marks and scars it leaves behind.
Types of acne we treat
- Blackheads and whiteheads (comedonal acne)
- Red, painful pimples and pus-filled bumps
- Deep, painful nodules and cysts
- Adult and hormonal acne, including acne linked to PCOS
- Acne on the back, chest and shoulders
- Acne triggered by cosmetics, hair oils, steroid creams or medicines
Treating active acne
At your first visit, Dr. Kiruthika examines your skin and asks about the products you use, any medicines you take and, where relevant, your menstrual cycle. She then grades the severity of your acne and plans treatment around it. Your plan may include:
- Creams and gels such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid or topical antibiotics.
- Oral medicines for moderate to severe acne, such as antibiotics, isotretinoin or hormonal treatment, when appropriate.
- Comedone extraction, done hygienically in the clinic.
- Chemical peels, for example salicylic acid peels, to unclog pores and speed up improvement.
- A simple skin-care routine: a gentle cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily sunscreen.
Treating acne marks and scars
Not every mark that acne leaves behind is a scar. Flat brown or red marks usually fade with treatment, while true scars change the texture of the skin. Scar treatment starts once active acne is under control.
| Type | What it looks like | Treatments that may help |
|---|---|---|
| Dark or red marks | Flat brown, red or purple spots | Creams, chemical peels |
| Rolling scars | Wide, wave-like dips | Subcision, microneedling, fractional CO₂ laser |
| Boxcar scars | Broad dips with sharp edges | Fractional CO₂ laser, microneedling, peels |
| Ice-pick scars | Narrow, deep pits | Focal TCA (CROSS) technique |
| Raised or keloid scars | Firm, thick bumps | Intralesional injections |
Subcision
A fine needle is passed under rolling scars to release the bands that pull the skin down, done under local anaesthesia.
Microneedling
Tiny controlled punctures stimulate the skin to produce new collagen, gradually smoothing scars. It can be combined with PRP.
Fractional CO₂ laser
The laser resurfaces the skin in microscopic columns, encouraging new collagen and smoother texture. Expect a few days of redness and fine crusting after each session.
Most people need several sessions, usually 4 to 6 weeks apart, and a combination of methods works better than any single one.
Why choose Skintillate
Your treatment is planned and carried out by Dr. Kiruthika, a dermatologist trained at PGIMER, Chandigarh, with a special interest in dermatologic surgery and aesthetic procedures. Consultation, procedures and your prescribed medicines are all available at the clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Can acne be cured completely?
Acne can be controlled very well with the right treatment, and most people reach a stage where they have few or no breakouts. Because acne is influenced by hormones and genetics, some people need a simple maintenance routine to keep it from coming back.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Most acne medicines take 6 to 12 weeks to show their full effect. It is important to keep using them as advised and come for follow-up visits, even if the first few weeks feel slow.
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Most acne scars can be made much less noticeable, often with a combination of treatments over several sessions. Complete removal is rarely possible, and Dr. Kiruthika will explain what improvement is realistic for your type of scars.
Is isotretinoin safe?
Isotretinoin is a very effective medicine for severe or stubborn acne when it is prescribed and monitored by a dermatologist. It is not suitable for everyone and must not be taken during pregnancy. Dr. Kiruthika will decide whether it suits you and arrange any tests needed.
Do I need to stop using makeup?
Not necessarily. Choose products labelled non-comedogenic or oil-free, remove makeup fully before bed, and avoid heavy oils on the face and hairline. Bring your products to your consultation if you are unsure about them.