Mild Acne

Mild Acne

Patients with mild acne generally have many clogged pores but have only a few inflammatory pimples. Mild acne does not come with deeper-seated cystic nodules. There may be pink or red marks present called post-inflammatory erythema after pimples have resolved. If the patient picks at the acne, there can be scars.

Main Treatments

• Use adapalene gel or other retinoid at night on the entire face
• Use anti-acne cleansers when washing the face
• If very oily, use anti-acne toner

Skin Care

• Remove causative or exacerbating factors
• Use non-comedogenic sunscreen as needed
• Use moisturizer only if dry

Add ons

• For new zits, use pimple spot treatment
• For flat red or pink blemishes, use a blemish spot treatment
• For any raised scars, use scar spot treatment

For Women Only

• If you use hormonal contraception, make sure it’s acne-friendly birth control
• If you are pregnant or attempting conception, your treatment options are more limited. Visit our page on acne during pregnancy
• Breastfeeding patients may safely use all the treatments recommended on this page