This is only partly true. As the first line of treatment, Dr. Mahto suggests trying over-the-counter products with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide (which destroys acne-causing bacteria), salicylic acid (an exfoliant that helps unclog pores), or retinoids (which reduce blocked pores). “If you have mild to moderate acne, there are clinic-based treatments you can do, such as chemical peels, BroadBand Light therapy (BBL), or laser therapies,” says Dr. Mahto. “However, they aren’t great for cystic acne, so it’s important to diagnose the severity of your acne to work out what the best treatment might be.”
