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Is Retino-A effective for cystic acne scar?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I suffered from cystic acne. I used Clindamycin and Epiduo gel. It cleared my acne, but left black and red marks. I have attached the pictures. Which type of scar is this? Is there any topical cream to remove the marks? Is a chemical peel or Retino A effective for this? I also have some holes in my face. Suggest me some treatment.
Answered by Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal is a seasoned General Practitioner with a specialization in Dermatology, Venereology, and Cosmetology, and extensive experience in the management of AIDS-related skin conditions. She holds an MBBS and an MD in Dermatology from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Mittal offers expert care in both medical and surgical dermatology, addressing a wide range of skin, hair, and cosmetic concerns. She is currently practicing in Amritsar, Punjab, India, where she is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based dermatological care.

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Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have read your query in detail and do understand your concern. I have also viewed the attached pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity). These are ice pick and boxcar scars (the big ones) of acne. Treatment for the small ice pick (hole-like) scars may be started with 50% to 100% TCA CROSS (Trichloroacetic acid), which involves application of a chemical to these scars by your dermatologist. This method is relatively cheaper, but there is a downtime of about two to four weeks with this method as post procedure spots will be visible. Fractional CO2 laser will also give wonderful results for your type of scars. Dermabrasion can also be done, but not much in use now. Chemical peels will not work for this type of scars. Retino-A will not be much effective. At the most, you will be able to see 5-10% improvement over small ice pick scars with Retino-A (Tretinoin).

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 10, 2018
Reviewed At October 15, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal is a seasoned General Practitioner with a specialization in Dermatology, Venereology, and Cosmetology, and extensive experience in the management of AIDS-related skin conditions. She holds an MBBS and an MD in Dermatology from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Mittal offers expert care in both medical and surgical dermatology, addressing a wide range of skin, hair, and cosmetic concerns. She is currently practicing in Amritsar, Punjab, India, where she is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based dermatological care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Companion

Cystic Acne Scar Treatment Companion

How it works

Cystic acne can leave various types of scars. Understanding them is the first step toward effective treatment. Here's what you need to know about common scar types and treatment approaches.

1

Acne
Scars

2

Topical
Treatments

3

Chemical
Peels

4

Laser
Therapy

5

Other
Options

6

Consulting
Dermatologist

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.
Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal
Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal

Dermatology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal is a seasoned General Practitioner with a specialization in Dermatology, Venereology, and Cosmetology, and extensive experience in the management of AIDS-related skin conditions. She holds an MBBS and an MD in Dermatology from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Mittal offers expert care in both medical and surgical dermatology, addressing a wide range of skin, hair, and cosmetic concerns. She is currently practicing in Amritsar, Punjab, India, where she is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based dermatological care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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