Pimple patches: what they can do, what they cannot, and which kind to buy
Hydrocolloid pimple patches help a pimple that has come to a head. Microdart patches are newer and less proven. A dermatologist explains which to use, and when.
Acne treatment.
Acne care for teens and adults with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Danielle Perna, at our office on N Maitland Ave.
Existing patients can also book online.
New patients usually seen within two to three weeks Billed to your health insurance Appointments from 7:30 am, Monday–Thursday
01 · When to come in
When to see a dermatologist.
If your breakouts are frequent, deep, or painful, if you're noticing dark marks or scarring, or if over-the-counter products haven't made a noticeable difference after two to three months, it's time to consider seeing a dermatologist. You should also reach out if your acne is affecting your confidence or keeping you from doing things you enjoy. These are signs that you may benefit from prescription treatment [1]. We can help identify the type of acne you have and create a treatment plan to clear your skin and prevent future breakouts and scarring.
"The earlier we treat acne, the better we can help prevent long-term scarring."
Danielle Perna, MD, board-certified dermatologist
02 · Acne we treat
Acne we treat.
Teen acne
Breakouts that start around puberty, on the face, chest, or back.
Adult and hormonal acne
Acne that starts or continues in your twenties, thirties, and beyond, often along the jawline and chin, and often flaring with the menstrual cycle.
Back and chest acne
Harder to reach with creams, so it often needs a different plan.
Deep, painful cysts and nodules
The kind most likely to scar, and the kind that needs prescription treatment [1].
Dark marks and early scarring
The marks pimples leave behind fade faster once the acne itself is under control.
03 · Treatment
How we treat acne.
Most people need a combination of treatments, and the plan changes as your skin responds. Our approach follows the American Academy of Dermatology's acne guidelines [1].
-
Prescription creams and gels
Topical retinoids such as adapalene and tretinoin unclog pores and prevent new breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne bacteria and is often combined with a retinoid or with a topical antibiotic such as clindamycin. Azelaic acid and clascoterone are other options, depending on your skin [1].
-
Oral medicines
For inflamed acne that creams alone don't control, a short course of an antibiotic such as doxycycline or minocycline, always paired with a cream so the antibiotic can be stopped as soon as possible [1].
-
Hormonal treatment
For acne that follows hormonal patterns, spironolactone or birth control pills can help, and we coordinate with your gynecologist or primary care doctor when needed [1].
-
Isotretinoin (often called Accutane)
For severe acne, acne that is scarring or causing real distress, or acne that hasn't responded to other treatment [1]. Many people finish a course in about six months [2]. It requires monthly visits, blood tests, and, for anyone who can become pregnant, pregnancy testing through a national safety program called iPLEDGE [1].
-
In-office treatment
A small cortisone injection can quickly calm a large, painful cyst [1], and extractions can help when done carefully.
04 · Your visit
Your first visit.
What to expect
-
First visit
Dr. Perna will ask about your history, examine your skin, and talk through your options. You'll leave with a plan and clear instructions for using it.
-
6–8 weeks
We usually see you again in six to eight weeks to check your progress and adjust the plan.
-
2–3 months
Most treatments take two to three months to show their full effect.
Isotretinoin follows its own schedule: monthly visits, and many people finish a course in about six months [2].
Before you come
- Bring a list of the products and medicines you've used for your skin, including what helped and what didn't, and any other medicines you take.
- Patients under 18 need a parent or guardian's consent to treatment, and a parent should come to the first visit.
Insurance and cost
Acne visits are medical visits, so they're billed to your health insurance like any other doctor's visit, and your usual copay or deductible applies. We're in network with Medicare and many plans from Aetna, Cigna, Florida Blue, Health First, Humana, Oscar, and UnitedHealthcare. See the full list on our Insurance & Forms page. Some plans don't cover every prescription cream; when that happens, we'll look for a covered or lower-cost option.
05 · Your dermatologist
Meet Dr. Perna.
Danielle Perna, MD
Board-certified dermatologist · Maitland Dermatology
Dr. Danielle Perna is a board-certified dermatologist and a Central Florida native. She grew up in Oviedo, earned her B.S. at the University of Central Florida, and received her M.D. from the University of Louisville School of Medicine, where she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha and completed her dermatology residency. At Maitland Dermatology she focuses on medical dermatology, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
06 · Questions
Questions patients ask.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist for acne?
It depends on your insurance. Many plans let you book directly with a dermatologist, but some HMO plans require a referral from your primary care doctor first. Check with your plan, or call us and we'll help you find out.
Does insurance cover acne treatment?
Yes. Acne is a medical condition, so visits are billed to your health insurance and your usual copay or deductible applies. Coverage for specific prescriptions varies by plan; if a medicine isn't covered, we'll look for an alternative.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Most treatments take two to three months to show their full effect. Using the treatment every day as directed, and coming back so we can adjust the plan, makes the biggest difference.
Do you treat adult acne and hormonal acne?
Yes. Acne isn't only a teenage problem; many adults have it, often along the jawline and chin. Hormonal treatments such as spironolactone or birth control pills can help, usually alongside a cream [1].
Do you prescribe isotretinoin (Accutane)?
Yes, for acne that is severe, scarring, or hasn't responded to other treatment [1]. It involves monthly visits, blood tests, and, for anyone who can become pregnant, pregnancy tests through the iPLEDGE program. Our blog post on isotretinoin explains what to expect.
Can you help with acne scars and dark marks?
Treating acne early is the best way to prevent scars. Dark marks left by pimples often fade with prescription treatment once breakouts are under control. For scars that are already there, Dr. Perna can talk through your options.
How soon can I be seen?
New patients are usually seen within two to three weeks. Call or text (407) 644-9030 and the front desk will find the right visit for you.
Sources
- Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. (American Academy of Dermatology). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2024.
- Barbieri JS, Tan J, Tollefson M, et al. Therapeutic Journey Among Patients with Acne Treated with Isotretinoin. Dermatology and Therapy, 2026.
Medically reviewed by Danielle Perna, MD, board-certified dermatologist · reviewed
Schedule
Ready to treat your acne?
New patients, call or text (407) 644-9030. Existing patients can also book online. We're open Monday–Thursday 7:30 am – 4:00 pm.