main menu

revelus dermatology

4401 West Gate Blvd, Ste 120
Austin, TX, 78745
Phone: (512) 815-2559

search revelus

Acne Treatment in Austin

Woman with clear healthy skin smiling during a dermatology consultation
Woman with clear healthy skin smiling during a dermatology consultation
Close-up of moderate acne on upper back
Close-up of moderate acne on the skin
Red acne breakouts on the upper back and shoulders
Close-up of inflammatory acne with red pimples on the chin and lower face
Close-up of moderate acne on cheek
Moderate acne breakouts on the cheek and lower face
Close-up view of a red inflamed acne pustule on facial skin

acne images

Diagnosis required by a licensed medical professional

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting patients at every stage of life. While breakouts are often associated with adolescence, many adults continue to deal with persistent or recurring acne well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond.

At Revelus Dermatology in Austin, our board-certified providers evaluate each patient individually to understand the underlying cause of their acne and build a treatment plan that fits their skin, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you are managing occasional breakouts or dealing with severe, treatment-resistant acne, we are here to help you get to clearer skin. ... More

At Revelus Dermatology in Austin, our board-certified providers evaluate each patient individually to understand the underlying cause of their acne and build a treatment plan that fits their skin, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you are managing occasional breakouts or dealing with severe, treatment-resistant acne, we are here to help you get to clearer skin.

Patient speaking with a dermatologist during an acne consultation in an exam room

signs + symptoms of acne

Recognizing acne early improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent long-term skin changes like scarring and discoloration.

Common signs include:

  • Blackheads and whiteheads: Clogged pores caused by excess oil and dead skin cells accumulating within hair follicles.
  • Inflammatory lesions: Red, swollen pimples that develop when bacteria and oil trigger an immune response beneath the skin.
  • Nodules and cysts: Deep, painful lesions that form beneath the surface and carry a higher risk of scarring without treatment.
  • Persistent oiliness: Excess sebum production that contributes to ongoing congestion and breakouts.
  • Post-breakout marks: Discoloration or textural changes that remain after lesions heal, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, a dermatology evaluation is the most reliable way to identify your acne type and the most effective path forward.

Dermatologist showing acne examples on a tablet during a patient consultation

types of acne we treat

Acne is not a single condition. Different types require different treatment approaches, which is why an accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective care.

  • Hormonal acne: Often appears along the jawline, chin, and neck. Common in adult women and frequently linked to hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women in perimenopause and menopause often experience new or worsening breakouts as estrogen levels decline, making hormonal acne one of the most common concerns we treat in patients over 40.
  • Adult acne: Affects patients in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond. Can be triggered or worsened by stress, diet, cosmetics, or systemic factors.
  • Teen acne: Driven by hormonal changes during puberty. Often presents with a mix of comedonal and inflammatory lesions across the face, back, and chest.
  • Cystic acne: A severe form of inflammatory acne involving large, deep cysts beneath the skin. Carries the highest risk of scarring and typically requires prescription treatment.
  • Comedonal acne: Characterized primarily by blackheads and whiteheads with minimal inflammation. Often responds well to topical retinoids.
  • Back and body acne: Breakouts on the back, chest, or shoulders are common and treatable with the same thorough approach we apply to facial acne.
Woman gesturing to her chin while speaking with a dermatologist during a skin consultation

what causes acne

Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Several factors contribute to why this happens and how severe it becomes:

  • Hormones: Androgens increase oil production and are a primary driver of both teen and hormonal adult acne.
  • Genetics: A family history of acne increases your likelihood of developing it.
  • Bacteria: Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) thrives in clogged follicles and triggers inflammation.
  • Stress: Elevated cortisol levels stimulate oil glands and can trigger or worsen breakouts.
  • Skincare and cosmetics: Pore-clogging products can contribute to comedonal acne, particularly in adults.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including corticosteroids and some hormonal therapies, may trigger acne as a side effect.
  • Diet: Emerging research suggests links between high-glycemic foods and dairy and acne severity in some patients.

Understanding your triggers is part of what we assess during your acne evaluation at Revelus.

what to expect at your appointment

your evaluation

Your first visit begins with a thorough review of your skin history, current breakout patterns, any previous treatments you have tried, and relevant health history. Your provider will examine your skin under magnification to assess the type, distribution, and severity of your acne. This initial picture is the foundation of everything that follows.

your diagnosis

Based on the evaluation, your provider will identify your acne type, whether comedonal, inflammatory, hormonal, cystic, or a combination. Understanding exactly what is driving your acne is what allows us to treat it effectively rather than guessing at a generic protocol.

your treatment plan

Your provider will walk you through the recommended treatment options for your specific acne type, explain what to realistically expect at each stage, and answer any questions you have. Prescriptions are sent directly to your pharmacy before you leave. In-office treatments, if recommended, can often be scheduled at the same visit.

follow-up care

Acne treatment is an ongoing process. Most prescription treatments require 6 to 12 weeks to show meaningful improvement, and your provider will schedule follow-up visits to monitor how your skin is responding and adjust the plan as needed. We are here for the full course of care, not just the first appointment.

your skin, our priority

Your skin deserves careful evaluation and clear guidance. If you notice changes in your skin or have ongoing concerns, our team is here to help you understand your diagnosis and feel confident in your care.

common acne questions

FAQ
how much does acne treatment cost in austin?

The cost of acne treatment at Revelus Dermatology depends on the type and complexity of your care. A standard evaluation is billed as a medical appointment and may be covered by insurance. Prescription treatments and in-office procedures are priced separately. We recommend contacting our office or your insurance provider to confirm your coverage before your visit.

does insurance cover acne treatment?

Medical acne treatment, including evaluations and prescription management, is often covered by insurance when medically necessary. Cosmetic procedures such as laser treatments may not be covered. Our team can help clarify what applies to your specific plan.

how long does it take to see results from acne treatment?

Most prescription topical treatments take 6 to 12 weeks to show meaningful improvement. Oral medications and isotretinoin typically require several months of consistent use. Your provider will set realistic expectations at your first visit and monitor your progress throughout.

what is the difference between hormonal acne and regular acne?

Hormonal acne is driven by fluctuations in androgen levels and tends to appear along the lower face, jawline, and chin, often flaring around the menstrual cycle. It commonly affects adult women and may not respond well to typical topical treatments alone. Hormonal therapies such as spironolactone or combined oral contraceptives are often effective options.

Women going through perimenopause or menopause may also notice new or returning breakouts as hormone levels shift, and hormonal treatment options remain effective for this group.

can adults get acne treatment at revelus?

Yes. Adult acne is one of the most common concerns we treat. Acne does not stop at adolescence, and many adults experience breakouts for the first time or see a recurrence in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. We treat patients of all ages and tailor every plan to the individual.

what is acne?

Acne is a chronic skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. It can present as blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples, nodules, or cysts, and most commonly affects the face, back, chest, and shoulders.

what causes acne?

Acne is caused by a combination of excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. Contributing factors include hormones, genetics, stress, diet, and certain medications. Identifying your specific triggers is part of the evaluation process at Revelus.

why should acne be treated by a dermatologist?

A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your acne type, identify contributing factors, and prescribe treatments that are not available over the counter. Early, appropriate treatment reduces the risk of scarring, post-inflammatory pigmentation, and the psychological impact that persistent acne can have on confidence and quality of life.

what is isotretinoin (accutane)?

Isotretinoin is a powerful oral medication used to treat severe or treatment-resistant acne. It works by significantly reducing oil production, preventing clogged pores, and decreasing inflammation. When prescribed and monitored by a dermatologist, isotretinoin is one of the most effective options for achieving long-term acne clearance.

who is a good candidate for isotretinoin?

Isotretinoin is typically recommended for patients with severe acne, cystic breakouts, acne that causes scarring, or acne that has not improved with other treatments. A dermatology evaluation helps determine whether this treatment is appropriate based on your medical history and skin goals.

is isotretinoin safe?

Isotretinoin has been safely used for decades but requires close medical supervision. Patients complete regular follow-ups and lab monitoring during treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.

how long does isotretinoin treatment last?

Most courses last about 5–7 months, depending on the dose and individual response. Many patients experience lasting improvement after completing treatment.

will my acne return after isotretinoin?

Many patients achieve long-term clearance. While some may experience minor breakouts later, they are often much easier to manage.

is accutane the same as isotretinoin?

Accutane was a brand name for isotretinoin. Today, several FDA-approved versions are available, but they all contain the same active medication.

the revelus commitment

Revelus Dermatology logo representing the practice’s brand identity
safety

Your health is our priority. We treat each condition with precision and adhere to the highest safety standards in every aspect of your care.

focus

We’re dedicated to you. We listen to your concerns and develop personalized treatment plans to address your skin condition with effective, patient-centered care.

experience

With extensive expertise, our team delivers comprehensive treatments designed to restore and maintain your skin’s health, ensuring the best possible outcomes.