Clinical Dermatology · Dubai
Acne Treatment
in Dubai
Comprehensive acne assessment and treatment by Dr. Kusuma Narayana — Head of Dermatology at Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Dubai. From persistent breakouts to deep cystic acne and scarring, every treatment plan is evidence-based and tailored to your skin.
Acne Assessment
Types of Acne We Treat
Comedonal Acne
Blackheads and whiteheads caused by blocked pores. Often the earliest stage of acne, responding well to topical retinoids and proper skincare.
Inflammatory Acne
Red, swollen papules and pustules indicating active bacterial infection and inflammation within the follicle. Requires targeted anti-inflammatory treatment.
Cystic & Nodular Acne
Deep, painful lesions beneath the skin surface that carry a high risk of permanent scarring. Often requires systemic treatment such as isotretinoin.
Hormonal Acne
Typically along the jawline and chin in adult women, driven by androgen sensitivity. May require hormonal therapy alongside topical treatments.
Adult Acne
Persistent or late-onset acne in adults over 25. Requires a different approach from teenage acne, addressing underlying hormonal and lifestyle factors.
Acne Scarring
Ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars left by previous acne. Multiple treatment modalities are available to improve skin texture and confidence.
Treatment Protocols
Evidence-Based Acne Treatments
Topical Retinoids
First-line treatment for comedonal and mild inflammatory acne. Normalises skin cell turnover, unblocks pores, and prevents new comedone formation. Includes adapalene, tretinoin, and tazarotene.
Topical & Oral Antibiotics
Targets the bacterial component of inflammatory acne. Used in combination with retinoids for moderate acne. Course-limited to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Hormonal Therapy
Anti-androgen treatments including spironolactone and combined oral contraceptives for hormonally driven acne in women. Addresses the root cause of sebum overproduction.
Isotretinoin (Roaccutane)
The most effective treatment for severe, scarring, or treatment-resistant acne. Reduces sebum production by up to 90%. Prescribed with careful monitoring by Dr. Kusuma.
Chemical Peels
Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and combination peels to reduce active acne, unclog pores, and improve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In-clinic treatments with minimal downtime.
LED Light Therapy
Blue and red light wavelengths to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. A gentle adjunctive therapy suitable for sensitive skin or pregnancy.
Scar Revision
Acne Scar Treatments
Acne scarring requires a tailored, multi-modality approach. Dr. Kusuma assesses scar type, depth, and skin tone to build a combination treatment plan for optimal results.
PICO Laser
Picosecond laser technology breaks down scar tissue and stimulates collagen remodelling with minimal downtime. Effective for atrophic scars and pigmentation.
RF Microneedling
Radiofrequency energy delivered via microneedles to remodel deep dermal collagen. Excellent for boxcar and rolling scars across all skin types.
Chemical Peels
Medium-depth TCA peels and the CROSS technique for ice-pick scars. Stimulates controlled wound healing and new collagen production.
PRP Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma injections harness your body's own growth factors to accelerate healing and enhance results when combined with microneedling.
Dermal Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers injected beneath deep atrophic scars to restore volume and smooth the skin surface. Immediate visible improvement.
Combination Protocols
Most patients benefit from a structured programme combining two or more modalities, spaced over several months for progressive improvement.
FAQ
Acne Treatment — Common Questions
What causes acne in adults?
Adult acne is commonly driven by hormonal fluctuations (particularly androgens), stress, certain medications, and genetic predisposition. In women, it often flares around the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, or with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Dr. Kusuma takes a thorough history and may arrange blood tests to identify underlying hormonal contributors.
Is isotretinoin (Roaccutane) safe?
Isotretinoin is a highly effective treatment for moderate-to-severe acne and is safe when prescribed and monitored by a dermatologist. Dr. Kusuma follows strict protocols including baseline blood tests, monthly monitoring, and pregnancy prevention measures. Side effects such as dry skin and lips are manageable with appropriate skincare.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Most acne treatments require 6–12 weeks to show meaningful improvement. Topical retinoids may cause an initial purge before improvement. Isotretinoin courses typically last 6–9 months. Dr. Kusuma sets realistic expectations and schedules regular reviews to adjust treatment as needed.
Can acne scars be treated?
Yes. Dr. Kusuma offers multiple scar treatments including PICO laser, RF microneedling, chemical peels, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), and dermal fillers for deep atrophic scars. A combination approach is usually most effective, tailored to the scar type — ice-pick, boxcar, or rolling scars each respond to different modalities.
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
You should see a dermatologist if over-the-counter products have not helped after 3 months, if your acne is leaving scars or dark marks, if you have deep painful cysts or nodules, or if acne is affecting your confidence or mental health. Early specialist input prevents scarring and achieves faster clearance.
Start Your Treatment
Ready to Clear Your Skin?
Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Dubai · Also at Mediclinic Dubai Hills Mall (Sundays)
Also offering: PICO Laser · Botox & Anti-Wrinkle · RF Microneedling · Skin Cancer Screening