Topical acne creams are prescription treatments formulated based on your acne type and severity. Your doctor will guide you on the correct application method, frequency, and duration for optimal results.
Oral acne medications are prescribed for moderate to severe or resistant acne. These medications work internally to regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and address hormonal triggers.
Both acne creams and oral medications require a professional medical consultation. During your assessment, the doctor will:
A detailed consultation helps patients better understand their skin and how to combine medical treatment with a proper home skincare routine.
In some cases, a combination approach including prescription treatments and in-clinic procedures may be recommended to achieve faster healing and reduce recurrence, based on the patient’s expectations and skin goals.
Acne treatments generally fall into two main categories: topical creams and oral medications. Both work by targeting different causes of acne, depending on severity and skin condition.
Topical acne creams contain active ingredients such as:
Oral medications are typically prescribed for moderate to severe or resistant acne. These may include:
In many cases, doctors may combine topical creams and oral medications with in-clinic aesthetic treatments, such as:
Proper post-care, a suitable skincare routine, and a healthy lifestyle also play an important role in achieving faster and longer-lasting results.
Acne creams and medications are ideal for patients experiencing:
If you are experiencing any of the above concerns, it is advisable to consult a qualified doctor for proper assessment and treatment.
Delaying treatment may allow acne to worsen and increase the risk of permanent scarring or pigmentation issues. Early intervention helps control breakouts more effectively and reduces long-term skin damage.
Compared to over-the-counter supplements or skincare products, prescription acne treatments are personalised and medically guided based on your specific skin condition.
Medical consultation ensures that your acne is treated safely, effectively, and with long-term improvement in mind.
Daily home routine; oral medications taken as prescribed
Noticeable improvement in 6–12 weeks; consistent use is key
Regular monitoring to adjust dosage and prevent side effects
None (though initial dryness, peeling, or purging may occur with creams)
Both prescription acne creams and oral medications are typically short-term treatment plans, not lifelong medications. In most cases, doctors prescribe them for approximately 3–4 months, followed by a review of your progress.
| Acne Creams (Topical Treatment) | Oral Medications |
|---|---|
| Applied as part of a daily home routine | Taken daily as prescribed by your doctor |
| Usually used once or twice daily, depending on condition | May be prescribed for 3–4 months, depending on severity |
| No major downtime involved (Mild dryness, peeling, redness, or temporary purging may occur in the early stages) | Some mild side effects may occur (e.g., dryness, mild stomach discomfort, or sun sensitivity) |
| Visible improvements may be noticed gradually with consistent use | Regular follow-up may be required to monitor progress |
It is important to continue application as prescribed, even if improvement takes time. Initial purging (temporary breakouts) can happen as the skin adjusts, but this usually settles.
Do not stop or adjust the medication without consulting your doctor. Proper monitoring ensures safety and long-term improvement while reducing the risk of recurrence.
To better understand your skin concerns and identify the most suitable product for your needs, contact our Customer Service team to book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor. Book your appointment: +6013 911 8712.
Acne treatment takes time. Some patients may notice improvement within a few weeks, but optimal results usually appear after consistent use over several months.
Yes. Mild dryness, redness, peeling, or temporary purging may occur when starting topical treatments. These effects usually improve as your skin adjusts.
Yes. Depending on the type and severity of your acne, your doctor may recommend topical creams, gels, oral medication or a combination of treatments.
Acne usually takes time to improve. Some patients may notice changes within a few weeks, while more noticeable improvement may take several months with consistent treatment.
Some acne treatments may initially cause dryness, irritation or a temporary increase in breakouts. If the reaction is severe or persistent, speak to your doctor rather than stopping or changing the medication yourself.
Acne medication primarily helps control active acne and prevent new breakouts. Once your acne is under control, treatments such as laser, subcision or TCA CROSS may be considered for existing acne scars.
It depends on the medication prescribed. Some products are intended for daily use, while others may need to be introduced gradually. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Some acne medications can cause dryness, peeling or irritation as they work. Using a suitable moisturiser and following your doctor’s instructions can help support your skin during treatment.
Yes. A non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen can help protect and support your skin, particularly when using acne treatments that may increase dryness or sensitivity.
Generally, makeup can be used, but choose products that are non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. Remove makeup gently at the end of the day.
Do not stop prescribed medication without discussing it with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend continuing treatment for a period to help maintain the improvement and reduce the risk of acne returning.
Sometimes. However, certain medications can make your skin more sensitive or affect how it responds to procedures. Always inform your doctor about the medications and skincare products you are using before undergoing an aesthetic treatment.
Yes. Acne can recur even after successful treatment. Acne can be caused by several factors, including hormones, excess oil production, clogged pores and inflammation. A suitable maintenance skincare or medication plan can help control future breakouts.
Oral medication may also be prescribed to help control acne, depending on its severity and underlying causes. Once the acne is under control, your doctor may recommend a suitable maintenance plan to help prevent future breakouts.
Acne can be influenced by hormones, oil production, genetics, stress and other factors. Skincare alone may not always be enough, and medication may be needed to control persistent acne.
Yes. Many acne treatments are designed not only to treat existing breakouts but also to prevent new acne from forming when used consistently.
Not always. Some acne medications are intended to be applied to the acne-prone area, rather than only individual pimples. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the specific product prescribed.
Using too many active ingredients together can irritate your skin and worsen dryness. It is better to follow a simple, doctor-recommended routine rather than combining multiple products on your own.
Mild dryness or irritation can occur with some treatments. Speak to your doctor if the irritation becomes uncomfortable or persistent, as your treatment frequency or medication may need to be adjusted.
Not all acne medications are suitable during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding before starting acne medication.
Certain acne treatments can be used in teenagers, depending on their age, acne severity and overall health. A doctor should determine the appropriate treatment and dosage.
Diet may influence acne in some individuals, but acne is usually caused by multiple factors. A balanced diet, good skincare and appropriate medical treatment can all play a role in managing acne.
Stress may contribute to acne flare-ups in some people. Managing stress, maintaining good sleep and following your treatment plan can help support overall skin health.
Treatment duration varies depending on your acne and how well your skin responds. Your doctor will monitor your progress and advise when to continue, adjust or stop treatment.
Yes. Acne creams and medications can be combined with treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy, or other in-clinic procedures for enhanced results.
Yes. A professional consultation is essential to determine the root cause of your acne and prescribe the most suitable treatment safely.
The cost varies depending on the type of medication prescribed, severity of acne, and treatment duration. Pricing will be discussed during consultation, as treatment plans are personalised for each patient.
A daily skincare routine is an important foundation for healthy skin, but it may not be enough on its own to fully treat acne—especially moderate to severe breakouts. Over-the-counter products can help keep your skin clean and balanced, but they are typically not strong enough to address deeper causes of acne such as:
Whether it’s skin, body, hair, or wellness concerns, our team is ready to help you feel more confident with personalised medical aesthetic solutions.
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