Acne — or pimples — isn’t one-size-fits-all. The same product that clears a friend’s skin can leave you read, dry, or still breaking out. That’s because skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or pigmented/darker skin) changes how treatments work. At Rakshaa Aesthetics, we create strategies based on the requirements of your skin rather than fads.
Here’s a concise, useful guide to what actually works for each type of skin, including at-home treatments, clinic choices, and what to anticipate.
Why skin type matters
Oil production, barrier strength, and sensitivity are all influenced by skin type. Sensitive skin reacts to harsh substances, dry skin can form inflammatory papules when barrier function is compromised, and oily skin tends to trap bacteria and dead skin in pores; and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following a breakout is more common in darker/pigmented skin. Matching treatment to skin type reduces side effects and speeds recovery.
- Oily & acne-prone skin
What works: gentle cleansers with salicylic acid (BHA) to exfoliate inside pores, topical benzoyl peroxide (BP) to reduce bacteria, and topical retinoids (adapalene/retinoic acid) to normalise follicular turnover.
In-clinic boosts: chemical peels (salicylic/mandelic), medical-grade facials like Hydrafacial, and laser therapies that reduce sebum and inflammation can help, especially for persistent or cystic acne.
Tip: Don’t over-strip the skin. Aggressive scrubs and repeated harsh washes increase oil production and irritation.
- Dry skin with acne
What works: lower-strength retinoids or retinoids used every other night, paired with a rich barrier-repair moisturizer containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide. Avoid high-percentage alcohol cleansers.
In-clinic boosts: gentle chemical peels (mandelic or low-strength lactic), LED therapy to calm inflammation, and targeted extractions performed by a dermatologist to avoid scarring.
Tip: Focus on restoring barrier function first — once the skin is less irritated, acne treatments are better tolerated and more effective.
- Combination skin
What works: targeted approach — BHA on the T-zone for pore clearance, hydrating cleansers and moisturisers on dry cheeks. Lightweight gels and emulsions often strike the right balance. Layer actives carefully: alternate days for different actives (e.g., salicylic on night 1, retinoid night 2).
Customized peels and HydraFacial procedures that enable special suction and serums for dry and oily areas are examples of in-clinic advancements.
- Sensitive skin
What works: start slow. Use fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient products. Azelaic acid and low-concentration niacinamide are usually tolerated. Patch-test first, then add one active at a time. Avoid combined aggressive treatments (high-strength peels + retinoids) until skin calms.
In-clinic boosts: LED/photobiomodulation and gentle medical facials; professional guidance is key to avoid irritation and rebound acne.
Tip: Consult a physician to rule out rosacea or contact dermatitis masquerading as acne if your skin reacts badly to numerous products.
- Darker skin tones (risk of PIH)
What works: aggressive acne control is important but must be balanced with pigment-safe strategies. Both PIH and acne are helped with topical retinoids and azelaic acid. Avoid overly aggressive physical peels or strong lasers unless performed by an experienced clinician who knows how to treat pigmented skin.
In-clinic boosts: chemical peels designed for darker skin (mandelic, low-strength TCA) and certain fractionated lasers/energy devices used conservatively. GFC/PRP can help in healing and reducing pigmentation post-inflammation.
Tip: Treat inflammation early — preventing a deep lesion is the best way to avoid long-lasting dark marks.
Oral medications & when they’re needed
For moderate-to-severe or nodulocystic acne, oral antibiotics, combined oral contraceptives (for hormonally influenced acne), or isotretinoin may be prescribed by a dermatologist. These are powerful tools but require medical supervision and follow-up.
What to avoid (common mistakes)
— Popping or squeezing pimples (risk of scarring and PIH).
— Over-using active products to “speed up” results (leads to irritation).
— Copying celebrity routines without considering skin type.
— Skipping sunscreen — many acne treatments increase sun sensitivity and can worsen pigmentation.
Rakshaa Aesthetics approach
At Rakshaa Aesthetics, we begin with a thorough skin examination that includes a skin-type assessment, lifestyle, and past treatments. When required, our approach may combine specialist home care (medical cleansers, targeted topicals) with in-clinic treatments like hydrafacial, chemical peels, LED therapy, PRP/GFC for healing, or focused lasers. Step-down maintenance and follow-up are essential: acne is controllable, but long-term management requires teamwork.
Quick routine templates
Oily acne-prone (AM/PM): sunscreen (AM) → oil-free moisturizer → gentle foam cleanser → BHA (pm) → BP spot therapy. Retinoid at night (start 2×/week).
Creamy cleanser → azelaic acid (AM) → moisturizing moisturizer → sunscreen for dry acne (AM/PM). Low-strength retinoid every other night.
Sensitive acne: fragrance-free cleanser → azelaic acid or niacinamide → barrier-repair moisturizer → sunscreen. Professional guidance before stronger activities.
FAQs
Q: How long until I see results?
A: Mild improvement often appears 4–6 weeks with topical therapy; meaningful change usually takes 8–12 weeks. Procedures can speed visible improvement, but skin biology needs time.
Q: Can I use retinoids and benzoyl peroxide together?
A: They both work well but can be irritating if started together. Many dermatologists recommend alternating nights or using a stabilised topical formulation to reduce irritation.
Q: Will a chemical peel cause scarring?
A: When done by an experienced dermatologist and matched to your skin type, peels are safe. Incorrect strength or technique increases risk, so always choose a qualified clinic like Rakshaa Aesthetics.
Q: Do natural cures like aloe and tea tree oil work?
A: Some natural ingredients (e.g., tea tree oil) have mild benefits but can also irritate. They’re best as adjuncts, not replacements for proven medical treatments.
Q: What if my pimples leave dark marks?
A: Topical azelaic acid, retinoids, chemical peels for pigmented skin, professional lasers, or GFC/PRP are among the therapies that help reduce PIH; however, the best course of action is to prevent PIH by treating inflammation as soon as feasible.
If acne is affecting your confidence or not responding to over-the-counter care, book a consultation at Rakshaa Aesthetics. A customised plan — matched to your skin type and lifestyle — gets better results, faster, and with fewer side effects.