Clear Acne, Fade Scars, Regain Confidence

Understanding Acne in the Indian Context

Acne affects 70% of Indian teenagers and 25% of adults, driven by genetics, hormonal fluctuations, high-glycemic diets, and humid climates like Hyderabad's. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) is especially prominent in Fitzpatrick IV-V skin, making early, aggressive treatment critical to prevent lasting discoloration and scarring.

At Ajuda Hospitals Dermatology, we deliver evidence-based acne care combining topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, chemical peels, and fractional lasers. Our protocols align with IADVL (Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists) guidelines, ensuring safe, effective outcomes for Indian skin.

Whether you're battling stubborn teenage acne, adult hormonal breakouts, or deep acne scars, our team tailors treatment to your skin type, lifestyle, and goals—with multilingual support in Telugu, Hindi, and English.

When to Consult Our Acne Specialists

Schedule a consultation if acne affects your confidence, professional life, or if you notice worsening despite self-care efforts.

Our Diagnostic Approach

Skin Assessment & Grading

We perform dermatoscopy and clinically grade acne severity (mild/moderate/severe) following IADVL classification. Comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads) vs inflammatory (papules/pustules) vs cystic acne each require different treatment intensities.

Trigger Identification

Detailed history identifies aggravators:

• Diet: Dairy, high-glycemic foods (sweets, white rice, maida)
• Cosmetics: Thick hair oils, comedogenic sunscreens, heavy foundations
• Medications: Steroids, protein supplements, hormonal contraceptives
• Lifestyle: Stress, irregular sleep, helmet/mask friction (mechanical acne)

Hormonal Screening (When Indicated)

For women with adult-onset acne, irregular periods, or hirsutism, we coordinate:

• Pelvic ultrasound for PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
• Hormonal panel: Testosterone, DHEAS, LH/FSH ratio
• Thyroid function tests (hypothyroidism can worsen acne)

Scar Analysis

Dermatoscopy and photography document scar type:

• Ice-pick scars: Deep, narrow pits (best treated with subcision/TCA CROSS)
• Rolling scars: Wave-like depressions (fractional laser, subcision)
• Boxcar scars: Broad, angular depressions (laser, microneedling RF)

Baseline images track progress throughout laser or peel series.

Treatment Pathways

Our acne management follows a stepped approach, escalating therapy based on severity and response:

Stage 1: Topical Therapy (Mild-Moderate Acne)

First-Line Agents:

• Retinoids (adapalene 0.1%, tretinoin 0.025-0.05%): Unclog pores, prevent new comedones, fade dark spots. Start alternate nights; build to nightly use over 4 weeks.
• Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5-5%: Antimicrobial action; combine with retinoids (morning BP, night retinoid) to prevent resistance.
• Topical Antibiotics (clindamycin 1%): Always pair with benzoyl peroxide to avoid resistance per guidelines.

Adjuncts:

• Oil-free moisturiser: Hyaluronic acid or ceramide-based to prevent retinoid dryness
• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+: Non-comedogenic, gel-based sunscreens (retinoids increase sun sensitivity)

Duration: 3-6 months for sustained control; maintenance ongoing.

Stage 2: Oral Antibiotics (Moderate-Severe Inflammatory Acne)

Doxycycline 100mg or azithromycin pulse therapy (500mg thrice weekly) for 6-12 weeks:

• Reduces inflammation and bacterial load
• Always combined with topical retinoid to prevent resistance
• Probiotic support minimises gut side effects
• Avoid in pregnancy; use sunscreen (photosensitivity risk)

Stage 3: Hormonal Therapy (Adult Women with PCOS/Resistant Acne)

Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) or spironolactone 50-100mg daily:

• Blocks androgen receptors, reducing sebum production
• Targets deep jawline/chin acne
• Requires gynecology collaboration; monitor potassium with spironolactone
• Results appear after 3-6 months; often continued long-term

Stage 4: Chemical Peels for Active Acne & Post-Acne Marks

Glycolic Acid Peels (30-50%) or Salicylic Acid Peels (20-30%):

• Exfoliate dead skin, unclog pores, lighten hyperpigmentation
• Performed every 3-4 weeks for 4-6 sessions
• Mild redness for 24-48 hours; strict sun protection mandatory
• Safe for Indian skin when protocol-driven with proper post-peel care

Stage 5: Fractional Laser for Atrophic Scars

Fractional CO2 or Erbium Laser:

• Creates micro-channels to stimulate collagen remodelling
• 3-5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart
• Reduces scar depth by 40-60% (ice-pick, rolling, boxcar scars)
• Downtime: 3-5 days of redness/peeling; avoid sun for 4 weeks
• Cooling systems and parameter control ensure safety for Fitzpatrick IV-V skin

Stage 6: Advanced Scar Procedures

Subcision: Releases fibrous bands tethering deep scars (ice-pick, rolling) Microneedling RF: Combines microneedles with radiofrequency for collagen tightening and texture improvement TCA CROSS: Targeted trichloroacetic acid for narrow ice-pick scars

What to Expect: Your Care Journey

First Visit (45 min)

• Dermatoscopy and acne grading
• Trigger assessment (diet, cosmetics, stress, hormones)
• Baseline photography for scar tracking
• Personalised treatment plan with timeline and costs
• Prescription for topicals ± oral therapy

4-Week Follow-Up (in-person or telemedicine)

• Review progress photos; assess tolerance to retinoids
• Adjust dosing or switch formulations if irritation persists
• Initiate chemical peel series if appropriate
• WhatsApp check-ins between visits for quick troubleshooting

Week Review

• Evaluate breakout reduction; document dark spot fading
• Continue oral antibiotics if needed (max 12 weeks per cycle)
• Plan laser scar treatment if active acne controlled
• Hormonal therapy monitoring (potassium, blood pressure)

Month Maintenance

• Transition to maintenance retinoid (lower concentration or less frequent)
• Monthly peels or quarterly laser sessions as needed
• Long-term sun protection and non-comedogenic skincare
• Annual reviews for relapse prevention

Technology & Innovation

Fractional CO2 Laser with EMR Photo Tracking

Our medical-grade fractional CO2 laser delivers precise micro-ablation, stimulating collagen without excessive heat injury. Cloud-based EMR/PACS stores baseline and follow-up images, allowing side-by-side comparison to objectively measure scar improvement.

Patient Benefits:

• Visual proof of progress via photo timeline
• Customised depth settings for Indian skin safety
• Post-procedure care protocols with WhatsApp support

Telemedicine Follow-Up

For stable patients on maintenance therapy:

• Upload progress selfies via secure portal
• Monthly video consultations for prescription refills
• Remote peel scheduling when ready
• Emergency slots for sudden flares

Preventing Complications

Untreated acne causes:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Dark spots lasting 6-12 months (longer in Indian skin)
• Atrophic scars: Permanent pitted texture requiring laser intervention
• Keloid scars: Raised, thickened scars (genetic predisposition in some Indians)
• Psychological impact: Anxiety, depression, social withdrawal

Our Prevention Strategy:

• Early, aggressive treatment before scarring develops
• Strict sun protection to prevent darkening of marks
• Avoid picking/squeezing (increases infection and scarring risk)
• Maintenance therapy to prevent relapse after initial control

Why Ajuda for Acne & Scar Care?

Take the First Step

Persistent acne and scars impact confidence and quality of life. Early intervention prevents permanent scarring and speeds recovery. Book a comprehensive acne evaluation today to receive a personalised treatment plan combining medical therapy, peels, and laser options.

Call 9010550550 or WhatsApp for same-day consultations. Our dermatology specialists are available Monday-Saturday, 9 AM-7 PM, with telemedicine follow-ups for your convenience.

Clear skin is within reach—let Ajuda Hospitals be your partner in acne and scar care.