Best Acne & Scar Treatment

Here, we explore the most effective acne and acne scar treatments available today, highlight what makes ALA photodynamic light therapy (PDT) a standout choice, and help you determine the best options for your skin goals.

What is the best treatment for acne and acne scars?

Treatments for acne and acne scarring vary depending on the severity, type of acne, and skin type. Here are some of the most proven options:

Topical & Oral Medications

For mild to moderate acne, dermatologists often prescribe:

• Topical retinoids (like tretinoin)
• Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to reduce bacteria and exfoliate skin
• Antibiotics to reduce inflammation and bacterial growth
• Oral contraceptives for women with hormonal acne
• Isotretinoin (Accutane) for severe cystic acne

While these treatments can be effective, they often require long-term use and come with side effects ranging from dryness to more serious health concerns, especially with oral medications.

Chemical Peels & Medical Facials

Chemical peels help exfoliate the skin, clear out clogged pores, and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. At ClaraDerma+, we offer medical-grade facials and peels tailored for acne-prone skin.

Microneedling & RF Microneedling

Microneedling, with or without radio frequency, such as Fractora, stimulates collagen production and is particularly effective for acne scars, especially rolling and boxcar scars. It helps smooth out skin texture and reduces pigmentation.

Laser Resurfacing

A variety of lasers are used to reduce acne scarring and pigmentation. However, until recently, very few lasers were approved for treating active acne.

Photodynamic Light Therapy (PDT)

Unlike most treatments that focus only on surface-level acne, PDT targets acne at its root: overactive oil glands and acne-causing bacteria. It's a standout option for those who want a drug-free, non-invasive, and long-term approach to acne treatment.

How does photodynamic light therapy (PDT) laser therapy work for acne?

Photodynamic therapy is a light-activated treatment that uses a photosensitizing agent and a specific light source to treat acne at its source. At ClaraDerma+, we use ALA-PDT (aminolevulinic acid–based photodynamic therapy), a two-step process:

• ALA Application: A layer of aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is applied to the skin, where it absorbs into oil glands and acne-prone areas.
• Light Activation: After a brief incubation period, the skin is exposed to a medical-grade LED light (typically blue or red), which activates the ALA. This activation generates a reaction that destroys acne-causing bacteria and shrinks sebaceous (oil) glands.

This targeted approach helps regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and significantly reduce future breakouts, all while being safe for most skin types.

Why Is PDT Considered an Effective Acne Treatment?

PDT has been shown in multiple clinical studies to be one of the most effective non-systemic treatments for acne, especially when other treatments haven’t worked.

Benefits of PDT for Acne:

• Treats active acne and prevents future breakouts by addressing oil production and bacteria.
• Minimal downtime: Redness and flaking may occur but typically resolve within a few days.
• Non-invasive and drug-free: No oral antibiotics, hormones, or harsh topicals required.
• Safe for teens and adults with mild, moderate, or severe acne.
• Reduces the risk of future scarring by controlling inflammation and breakouts.

Most patients see visible improvement after a series of treatments, with optimal results after 3–5 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Long-term improvement is common, especially when PDT is combined with professional skincare or additional treatments.

Acne Scar Treatment with PDT & More

PDT can also play a role in minimizing acne scarring, especially when used as part of a customized treatment plan. At ClaraDerma+, we may combine PDT with other effective skin-repair modalities, including:

• Microneedling
• Laser resurfacing
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Chemical peels

This multi-modal approach allows us to both calm active breakouts and address textural issues such as scarring and pigmentation, for smoother, more even skin over time.

Is PDT Right for You?

Photodynamic Therapy is ideal for:

• Teens and adults with ongoing breakouts
• Those with inflammatory or hormonal acne
• Patients looking for drug-free acne treatment
• Anyone seeking long-term oil regulation
• Clients who want to reduce acne scars and prevent new ones

Our skilled team will assess your skin during a consultation and recommend the best path forward. Your custom treatment plan may include PDT combined with other clinical treatments and medical-grade skincare for lasting results.

Ready to start your journey to clear skin?

Acne doesn’t have to be a lifelong battle. Whether you are searching for the best treatment for hormonal acne or to fade persistent scarring, we are here to help.

At ClaraDerma+, we’re proud to be one of the few clinics in the Niagara Region offering the most advanced acne treatments available today. Our experienced medical aesthetics team delivers personalized care in a professional, welcoming environment, so you can feel confident every step of the way. Don’t wait to start your journey to clearer skin. Book a consultation with ClaraDerma+ today and experience the future of acne treatment.