Acne Treatment: Clear Skin with Expert Dermatology Care in Mumbai

Author

Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Mumbai, Dr Milan Doshi

Indian Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
M.CH, MS, ISAPS Mentor
15000+ Cosmetic Surgeries
750+ Acne Treatment

Tired of Acne and Scars Taking Over Your Confidence?

  • Do breakouts make you feel embarrassed or shy about facing people?
  • Have countless creams, face washes, and home remedies failed to deliver results?
  • Are stubborn acne scars and pigmentation making you avoid mirrors or hide behind makeup?

You’re not alone. Acne is one of the most common skin concerns worldwide, and its emotional toll is immense. From avoiding social gatherings to feeling anxious during important life events, the frustration can be overwhelming—especially when the scars linger long after the pimples are gone.

Acne and Acne Scar Removal Treatment offers a clinically proven solution to restore clear, smooth, and healthy skin. At Allure Medspa, we combine advanced dermatological techniques like laser therapy, chemical peels, microneedling, and medical-grade topical solutions to effectively treat active acne, fade scars, and prevent future breakouts—customized for your skin type and concern.

Global & Indian Trends (ISAPS 2023):

  • Skin treatments, including acne scar correction, rank among the top non-surgical aesthetic procedures globally
  • India has seen a significant rise in demand for advanced acne scar treatments, especially among individuals aged 18–35
  • Laser-based acne scar reduction is one of the fastest-growing skin rejuvenation services in urban centers

Source: ISAPS Global Survey 2023

Ready to get back clear skin and unshakable confidence? Let’s explore how acne and scar treatments can transform your life.


Other Topics: MNRF Treatment | Skin Whitening | Pigmentation


What Is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells clog your hair follicles. This blockage leads to the formation of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and in severe cases, painful cysts. While acne is most prevalent among teenagers due to hormonal changes, it can affect people of all ages—including adults.

Acne can be persistent and frustrating because breakouts often take time to heal, and just when one subsides, new ones appear. Left untreated, acne can cause long-lasting effects such as pigmentation, scarring, and emotional distress. Early and professional treatment significantly reduces these risks and helps you achieve clear, healthy skin faster.

Why Timely Treatment Matters:

  • Prevents permanent acne scars and dark spots
  • Reduces the severity and frequency of breakouts
  • Improves confidence and emotional well-being

Synonyms for Acne Treatment:

Blemish Care, Pimple Reduction, Acne Scar Therapy, Breakout Management, Skin Clarifying Treatment

“Do you know that each Acne Treatment is different, so is the cost?”

Acne occurs when excess oil, bacteria, and clogged pores cause inflammation. Hormones, stress, diet, and certain medicines can make it worse.

Main Factors Behind Acne:

  • Excess oil (sebum) production
  • Clogged hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells
  • Bacterial growth in blocked pores
  • Inflammation under the skin

Triggers That Worsen Acne:

  • Hormonal Changes: Puberty, pregnancy, and midlife hormone shifts increase oil production.
  • Medications: Drugs containing corticosteroids, testosterone, or lithium.
  • Diet: High-carb, sugary foods, dairy, and fatty meals may aggravate acne.
  • Stress: Does not cause acne but worsens existing breakouts.
  • Genetics: Family history increases susceptibility to severe acne.

Chocolate, oily foods, and makeup don’t cause acne. Harsh scrubbing can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse.

Popular Acne Myths Debunked:

  • Chocolate & Greasy Foods: No strong evidence they cause acne breakouts.
  • Hygiene: Acne isn’t due to dirty skin; over-scrubbing worsens irritation.
  • Cosmetics: Non-comedogenic, oil-free products are safe and won’t block acne treatments.

Acne types range from mild blackheads to severe cystic lesions. They differ by grade, appearance, severity, and underlying causes.

acne grade

Acne Grading System:

  • Grade 1: Comedones, occasional papules.
  • Grade 2: Papules, comedones, few pustules.
  • Grade 3: Predominant pustules, nodules, abscesses.
  • Grade 4: Severe acne with cysts, nodules, papules, and pustules.

Other Types of Acne:

  • Acne vulgaris: Common teenage acne caused by clogged follicles.
  • Nodulocystic acne: Severe acne with inflamed nodules and scars, more common in males.
  • Acne excorieé: “Picker’s acne” due to compulsive scratching, linked to stress or anxiety.
  • Acne fulminans: Rare, ulcerative acne with sudden onset and systemic symptoms.
  • Acne in children: Hormonal changes or hyperactive sebaceous glands in kids.
  • Acne in pregnancy: Hormonal shifts during pregnancy; avoid prescription acne drugs.
  • Diabetic acne: Higher risk of inflamed acne in people with diabetes; medication monitoring needed.
  • Drug-induced acne: Caused by corticosteroids, lithium, barbiturates, and certain medications.
  • Adult acne: Post-adolescent acne after age 25; similar causes as teenage acne.
  • Acne scarring: Fibrous healing process leaving permanent marks.
  • Chloracne: Linked to chemical exposure (chlorinated compounds).
  • Comedonal acne: Whiteheads and blackheads on forehead and cheeks.
  • Follicular occlusion syndrome: Four conditions occurring together (e.g., acne conglobata).
  • Infantile acne: Appears in babies aged 6 weeks to 1 year; resolves naturally.

Acne commonly affects the T-zone, cheeks, jawline, and hairline due to oil buildup, friction, hormones, or hair products clogging pores.

  • Hairline & Temples: Hair products with oil or wax can clog pores, causing forehead acne. Keep products away from the skin.
  • T-zone (Forehead, Nose, Chin): Prone to frequent breakouts due to higher oil (sebum) production.
  • Cheeks: Acne mechanica from friction or rubbing (phones, helmets, pillowcases) can trigger breakouts.
  • Jawline: Linked to hormonal fluctuations, often seen during menstrual cycles or stress.

Scientists have tended to link acne around the jawline to fluctuations in hormones.

Acne can cause dark spots, scarring, and skin damage if picked or left untreated. These marks can last for months or become permanent.

  • Excoriated Acne: Red bumps, open sores, and scabs caused by scratching or squeezing pimples; may develop into nodules or cysts.
  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots left after acne heals; common and can last for months, often more distressing than acne itself.
  • Scarring: Includes ice-pick scars (deep, narrow pits) and raised hypertrophic scars, usually after severe or inflamed breakouts.

Treating acne early prevents scars, reduces severe breakouts, speeds results, and protects mental well-being for long-term clear skin.

Why Treat Acne Early?

  • Reduces treatment time and delivers faster results.
  • Prevents acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
  • Stops mild acne from progressing to severe, painful breakouts.
  • Minimizes the need for strong medications with side effects.
  • Prevents years of persistent acne and future flare-ups.
  • Improves self-esteem and reduces emotional distress linked to acne.

Acne is usually diagnosed by a visual skin exam. Tests are rarely needed unless ruling out infections or hormonal imbalances in women.

  • Visual Examination: Dermatologists identify acne by checking skin lesions, comedones, and inflammation.
  • Swab or Scraping: Done if infection is suspected; sent for microbiological culture.
  • Hormonal Blood Tests (Women): May include checks for pregnancy, high prolactin, Cushing’s syndrome, or excess testosterone.


Conditions like rosacea, folliculitis, and keratosis pilaris can mimic acne but have different causes and treatments. Always consult a dermatologist.

  • Rosacea: Often mistaken for adult acne but caused by vascular changes, not clogged pores.
  • Folliculitis: Inflammation of hair follicles, usually bacterial; treated with antibiotics.
  • Keratosis Pilaris: Rough, gooseflesh-like bumps on arms, thighs, or face.
  • Miliaria Rubra: Heat rash with small red bumps, triggered by excessive sweating.
  • Drug-Induced Rashes: Some cancer therapies cause acne-like rashes requiring specialized care.

Acne treatments include skincare habits, home remedies, topical creams, oral medications, and dermatologist-performed procedures for effective results.

1. Acne Treatment at Home:

  • Wash face twice daily with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.
  • Use non-abrasive, alcohol-free products; avoid harsh scrubbing.
  • Apply sunscreen daily to prevent darkening of scars.
  • Natural Remedies: Tea tree oil, green tea, apple cider vinegar for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Diet Modifications: Low-glycemic diet, reduced dairy intake; avoid sugar and refined carbs.
  • Stress Reduction: Helps speed up healing and prevent scarring.

2. Over-the-Counter Treatments:

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne bacteria, removes excess oil.
  • Adapalene & Tretinoin: Vitamin A derivatives to prevent clogged pores.
  • Clascoterone: Blocks hormones causing excess oil.
  • Calamine Lotion, Sulfur: Dry out lesions and reduce oil.

3. Prescription Oral Medications:

  • Antibiotics: Doxycycline, Erythromycin for bacterial infections.
  • Isotretinoin: Effective for severe acne; avoid in pregnancy.
  • Hormonal Therapy (Women): Birth control pills, spironolactone for hormonal acne.

4. Dermatologist Procedures:

  • Comedone Extraction to unclog pores.
  • Chemical Peels & Microdermabrasion for skin renewal.
  • Acne Facials for deep cleansing.
  • Corticosteroid Injections for severe cystic acne.
  • Acne Surgery for stubborn nodules or cysts.

Hormonal acne responds best to oral medications, hormonal therapy, and topical retinoids. Advanced treatments can help when breakouts are severe.

1. Hormonal Therapy (Women):

  • Oral Contraceptive Pills: Regulate hormones to prevent cyclical acne.
  • Spironolactone: Reduces androgen levels, controlling excess oil and breakouts.

2. Topical Treatments:

  • Retinoids: Prevent clogged pores and reduce inflammation.
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and controls oil.

3. Oral Medications:

  • Isotretinoin: For severe, resistant hormonal acne (requires medical supervision).

4. Lifestyle & Skincare:

  • Low-glycemic diet and stress management.
  • Non-comedogenic skincare to avoid pore clogging.

For stubborn hormonal acne, a dermatologist may recommend combination therapy for the best long-term results.

Acne scars form when deep skin damage heals unevenly. Treatments include dermatologist procedures, home care, and diet adjustments for clear, smooth skin.

Why Treat Acne Scars?

  • Improves skin texture and overall appearance.
  • Boosts self-confidence and emotional well-being.
  • Promotes long-term skin health and prevents worsening.

types of acne scarring

Types of Acne Scars:

  • Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow pits in the skin.
  • Rolling Scars: Wavy, uneven depressions.
  • Boxcar Scars: Broad, rectangular depressions.
  • Keloid & Hypertrophic Scars: Thick, raised tissue above the skin surface.

Home Remedies & Diet for Scar Lightening:

  • Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • Berries & Papaya: Rich in enzymes and antioxidants for skin renewal.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and promote healing.
  • Vitamin A & C Foods: Sweet potatoes, green veggies, lemon juice for skin regeneration.
  • Green Tea & Quinoa: Packed with antioxidants to reduce discoloration.
  • Nuts & Whole Grains: Almonds (Vitamin E) and brown rice (magnesium) for skin repair.

Dermatologist-Recommended Treatments for Acne Scars:

Dermatologists use advanced techniques to minimize acne scars and restore smooth, healthy skin.

1. Acne Scar Surgery:

  • Excision & Punch Grafting: Removes deep scars and replaces with skin grafts.
  • Surgery + Injections: Combines surgery with corticosteroids or 5-FU for raised scars.
  • Surgery + Radiation: Rarely used to prevent regrowth of severe scars.

2. Skin Resurfacing:

3. Injectable Treatments:

  • Fillers: Hyaluronic acid, collagen, or fat grafting to lift depressed scars.
  • Steroid Injections: Flatten raised, thick scars.

4. Advanced Techniques:

  • Radiofrequency Tightening: Firms skin and reduces scar depth.
  • Cryosurgery: Freezes raised scars (not recommended for dark skin).
  • Carboxy Therapy: Improves blood circulation and healing using CO₂.
  • Mesotherapy: Injects nutrients and vitamins for skin repair.
  • Combination Therapy: PRP + Microneedling Radiofrequency + Laser for better results.

5. At-Home Care:

  • Silicone gels, scar creams, and retinoid-based products for mild scarring.

What Results Can You Expect?

Most treatments reduce scar depth and visibility, making them barely noticeable. Results depend on scar type and dermatologist expertise.

Yes. High-glycemic foods, stress, and poor sleep can worsen acne. Balanced nutrition and healthy habits play a key role in controlling breakouts.

Diet and Acne:

  • High-Glycemic Foods: Sugary snacks, white bread, and refined carbs spike blood sugar, increasing oil production.
  • Dairy Products: Studies link milk (especially skim) to acne flare-ups.
  • Healthy Alternatives: Whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation.

Lifestyle Factors:

  • Stress: Increases cortisol, which stimulates oil glands and worsens acne.
  • Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep affects hormone balance and skin healing.
  • Exercise: Boosts blood circulation and skin health, but cleanse skin after sweating to prevent clogged pores.

Tips for Clear Skin:

  • Follow a low-glycemic diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
  • Maintain 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily.

Consulting a dermatologist ensures accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, safe medication use, and effective scar management for lasting clear skin.

  • Expert Diagnosis: Identifies acne type and rules out similar skin conditions like rosacea or folliculitis.
  • Customized Treatment: Plans tailored to your acne type, severity, scar patterns, and past treatments.
  • Comprehensive Care: May combine medications, peels, laser therapy, microneedling, or advanced procedures for best results.
  • Safety Assurance: Monitors drugs like isotretinoin to prevent side effects and ensure safe usage.
  • Scar Management: Offers advanced options for acne scar reduction and skin texture improvement.

The cost of acne treatment in Mumbai starts from ₹1,500 for basic care and can go up to ₹25,000 or more for advanced laser and combination therapies.

Factors Affecting Cost:

  • Type of treatment (topical, oral, laser, chemical peel, microneedling).
  • Severity of acne and presence of scars.
  • Number of sessions required for optimal results.
  • Dermatologist’s expertise and clinic facilities.

Estimated Price Range in Mumbai:

  • Consultation Fee: ₹500 – ₹1,500 per visit.
  • Chemical Peel: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per session.
  • Laser Treatment: ₹8,000 – ₹25,000 per session.
  • Microneedling with PRP: ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 per session.

Note: Costs vary by clinic, treatment plan, and individual skin needs. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for a personalized quote.

Dr. Milan Doshi, a renowned cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai, offers expert acne and scar treatments with proven results and high patient satisfaction.

Why Choose Dr. Milan Doshi?

  • Board-certified cosmetic surgeon with decades of experience.
  • Treated thousands of patients, including Bollywood celebrities and international clients.
  • Expertise in advanced acne treatments like CO₂ laser, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion.
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to your skin type and scar severity.
  • Focus on safety and minimal side effects under professional care.

With in-depth medical knowledge and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Milan Doshi ensures superior results for acne and scar treatments in Mumbai.

Allure Medspa, Mumbai, is a leading NABH and ISO-certified cosmetic center offering advanced acne and scar treatments with world-class safety standards.

Why Choose Allure Medspa?

  • State-of-the-art facilities with strict safety protocols.
  • Comprehensive acne care: medical, surgical, and advanced laser treatments under one roof.
  • Expert team led by Dr. Milan Doshi, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon.
  • Personalized treatment plans for acne, scars, and skin rejuvenation.
  • International patient care and concierge services available.

Book your consultation today at Allure Medspa, Mumbai, and get expert solutions for acne and acne scar treatments with trusted care and proven results.

ICD-10 Codes for Acne

ICD-10 Code Description
L70.0 Acne vulgaris
L70.1 Acne conglobata (severe acne)
L70.2 Acne varioliformis
L70.3 Acne tropica
L70.4 Infantile acne
L70.5 Acne excoriee
L70.8 Other acne
L70.9 Acne, unspecified

CPT Codes for Acne Treatment

CPT Code Description
99213 Office or outpatient visit for evaluation and management (low complexity)
99214 Office or outpatient visit for evaluation and management (moderate complexity)
10040 Acne surgery (e.g., drainage of abscess, comedone extraction, cyst excision)
17110 Destruction of benign lesions (up to 14), may include acne scar treatment
17111 Destruction of benign lesions (15 or more), e.g., acne scars or keloids
96573 Photodynamic therapy (per session, used for acne treatment)
96910 Photochemotherapy (e.g., PUVA), per session
96912 Phototherapy, including UV, per session
15788 Chemical peel, facial; epidermal (for acne and acne scars)
15789 Chemical peel, facial; dermal (for deeper acne scar treatment)
17360 Chemical exfoliation (superficial acne treatment)

Q1. How do I remove acne?

Ans. Start with a gentle skincare routine, including a mild cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturizer. Over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help. For persistent acne, consult a dermatologist.

Q2. How to get rid of acne fast?

Ans. Avoid touching your face, reduce sugar and dairy intake, and use dermatologist-approved topical treatments. In severe cases, oral medications or professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy may be required.

Q3. How long does acne last?

Ans. Mild acne may clear in weeks with treatment, but untreated acne can persist for 4–5 years. Chronic cases often require medical care to prevent scarring.

Q4. Should I pop my acne?

Ans. No, popping pimples can worsen inflammation, push bacteria deeper into the skin, and cause permanent scars.

Q5. What causes acne?

Ans. Acne develops when excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria clog pores. Hormonal fluctuations, diet, stress, and genetics can worsen the condition.

Q6. Is acne a sign of poor health?

Ans. Not necessarily. Acne is usually related to clogged pores or hormonal imbalance, but persistent or severe acne may indicate an underlying issue requiring medical advice.

Q7. Which foods cause acne?

Ans. High-glycemic foods like sugar, refined carbs, and dairy products can trigger breakouts in some individuals.

Q8. Does ice help acne?

Ans. Yes, applying ice for short periods can reduce redness and swelling in inflamed pimples but does not treat the root cause.

Q9. Which cream is best for pimples?

Ans. Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids are commonly recommended. Prescription creams may be needed for severe cases.

Q10. How to remove acne marks?

Ans. Mild marks can fade with scar creams and sunscreen. Deep scars may need chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing under a dermatologist’s supervision.

Q11. What age is acne the worst?

Ans. Acne commonly peaks during teenage years (ages 12–18) due to hormonal changes but can persist into adulthood.

Q12. How to clear acne in 24 hours?

Ans. Complete clearing in 24 hours isn’t realistic, but spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can reduce inflammation overnight.

Q13. How to permanently clear acne?

Ans. Permanent control often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, topical treatments, oral medications, and in some cases, hormonal therapy prescribed by a dermatologist.

Q14. Can aloe vera help with pimples?

Ans. Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm redness, but it is not a primary treatment for acne.

Q15. How to prevent acne breakouts?

Ans. Maintain a proper skincare routine, avoid harsh scrubbing, keep makeup non-comedogenic, and manage stress. A balanced diet also helps in reducing breakouts.

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