Acne involves blocked follicles and inflammation, commonly affecting the face, chest and back. It can cause pigmentation, scarring and substantial emotional distress. Treatment is matched to acne type, severity, pregnancy context, skin sensitivity and previous response, with realistic timelines measured in weeks rather than days.
WHICH DOCTOR SHOULD I SEE?
See a dermatologist for acne
At Lotus Hospital in HSR Layout, acne is assessed by the Dermatology team. For severe or sudden symptoms, go to the nearest emergency department or call 112.
Dermatology
Dr. Sharad Nadig
- Qualifications
- MBBS, DVD, MD
- Experience
- 30+ years
- Fee
- ₹700
- Languages
- English, Hindi
- Registration
- KMC 42855
★ 95% (182 votes) on Practo
Skin concerns · Hair and scalp concerns · Nail concerns · Cosmetology consultation
Understanding severity and pattern
Comedones, inflamed papules, pustules, nodules and scars require different approaches. Menstrual pattern, medicines, hair or skin products and occupational exposure can contribute.
Picking, harsh scrubbing and frequent product changes can increase inflammation and marks. A simple routine makes treatment response easier to judge.
- Type of lesions
- Face, chest or back distribution
- Scarring or pigmentation
- Hormonal pattern
- Product and medicine triggers
- Emotional impact
Treatment principles
Topical treatments may address blocked pores, bacteria and inflammation. Oral antibiotics, hormonal options or isotretinoin are reserved for appropriate situations and require medical oversight.
Pregnancy and pregnancy planning change which medicines are safe. Ask about irritation, sun sensitivity, contraception requirements where relevant and how long to continue treatment.
- Gentle cleansing
- Non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen
- Consistent topical treatment
- Antibiotic stewardship
- Pregnancy safety
- Maintenance after improvement
Pigmentation and scarring
Post-inflammatory marks can fade slowly and are worsened by ultraviolet exposure and ongoing acne. Preventing new inflammation is the first step.
Procedures for scars or pigmentation are selected after active disease is controlled and with attention to skin type and pigment-change risk. Results vary and usually require a series rather than one treatment.
- Control active acne first
- Daily sun protection
- Avoid picking
- Identify scar type
- Discuss downtime and pigment risk
- Set realistic outcomes
When specialist review helps
Seek dermatology advice for nodules, scarring, persistent acne despite an adequate trial, suspected medicine-related acne, significant distress or when treatment choices are limited by pregnancy or other conditions.
- Painful deep lesions
- Early scarring
- Treatment failure
- Diagnostic uncertainty
- Pregnancy considerations
- Mental-health impact
Medical information is general and does not replace an individual consultation.
PATIENT QUESTIONS
Acne: questions patients ask
What causes acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, allowing bacteria and inflammation to build up. Hormonal changes, genetics, some medicines, heavy or oily cosmetics, and in some people stress or certain foods can contribute. Conditions such as PCOS can also cause acne in women.
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
See a dermatologist if acne is painful or deep, leaves marks or scars, has not improved after a few months of over-the-counter treatment, affects your confidence, or starts suddenly in adulthood. Early treatment of moderate to severe acne helps prevent permanent scarring.
How is acne treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity, and may include prescription creams such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, oral antibiotics for a limited period, hormonal treatment for some women, or isotretinoin for severe acne under close supervision. Most treatments take eight to twelve weeks to show clear improvement.
Can acne scars and dark marks be treated?
Yes. Dark marks often fade over months with sun protection and suitable creams. Depressed scars may improve with procedures such as chemical peels, microneedling or laser, but results vary and usually need several sessions. Active acne should be controlled before scar treatment begins.
Should I avoid any products or habits with acne?
Avoid squeezing or picking spots, harsh scrubs, heavy oily cosmetics and applying steroid creams, which can worsen acne. Use a gentle cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen. Be cautious about home remedies that irritate the skin, and check with a dermatologist before combining treatments.
Which doctor should I see for acne at Lotus?
A dermatologist can assess the type of acne and plan treatment, including scar care. Book online with a dermatologist listed on the Dermatology page, send a WhatsApp message, or call the care team on +91 80505 98999. Bring the products and medicines you have used.
LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
Getting to Lotus Hospital, HSR Layout
Lotus Multi Speciality Hospital
2361, 24th Main Road, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102
Near Bangalore One, HSR Layout 1st Sector
Open 24 hours, 7 days · OPD timings vary by doctor
Lotus is on 24th Main Road in Sector 1, near Bangalore One. Autos and cabs can drop at the entrance on 24th Main.
Head into HSR Sector 1 from the Agara Lake side of the Outer Ring Road and continue to 24th Main Road.
Take the Sarjapur Road or 27th Main HSR approach towards Sector 1, then turn onto 24th Main Road.
Travel along the Outer Ring Road towards Agara, enter HSR Layout Sector 1 and continue to 24th Main Road.
Use the Outer Ring Road from Silk Board towards HSR Layout and turn into Sector 1.
Cross from Hosur Road into HSR Layout through the Sector 7 side and continue north to Sector 1.
Come towards Agara and the Outer Ring Road junction, then into HSR Layout Sector 1.
Take Hosur Road to Silk Board, then the Outer Ring Road into HSR Layout. Best for planned visits.
Travel time changes with traffic. Check live directions before you leave and allow time for registration.