What to Expect When Starting Prescription Acne Treatment

Starting prescription treatment for acne is an exciting step, but it can also come with questions. How long will it take to work? Will your skin react? What if it gets worse before it gets better? Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and stay on track.

The first few weeks
It’s normal for your skin to go through an adjustment period. You might notice:

• Redness or irritation
• Dry or flaky patches
• A temporary increase in breakouts
• Skin feeling tight or sensitive

These side effects are common, especially if you’re using ingredients like tretinoin, adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics. Your skin is learning how to tolerate the treatment while it starts clearing acne at the source.

The purging phase
Some users experience purging during the first 2–4 weeks. This happens when the treatment speeds up cell turnover, pushing clogged pores to the surface. Purging usually affects areas where you typically break out and should start to improve after a few weeks. If new breakouts appear in unusual places or last longer than six weeks, it might not be purging. In that case, check with your provider.

When you’ll start seeing results
Most prescription treatments begin to show visible results between 6 to 12 weeks. You may first notice fewer new pimples, faster healing, and smoother skin texture. Full improvement may take a few months, depending on your skin type, the severity of your acne, and the specific treatment plan.

Tips for staying on track

• Use your treatment exactly as prescribed — consistency matters more than perfection.
• Apply it to clean, dry skin and avoid using too much.
• Pair it with a simple, gentle skincare routine that includes a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
• Use sunscreen every day to prevent irritation and protect against dark spots.
• Be patient and try not to pick or squeeze breakouts.

When to contact your provider
Reach out to your provider if you experience:

• Painful irritation, burning, or swelling
• Breakouts getting worse after 6+ weeks
• Trouble following the routine or concerns about side effects

Prescription treatments take time, but they work. With daily use and a supportive routine, you’ll give your skin the best chance to heal and stay clear.

Sources to learn more:
Mayo Clinic | National Institute of Health | Johns Hopkins