Clearing a patient’s active acne is only half the battle, according to San Diego dermatologist Neal Bhatia, MD, FAAD. He says achieving truly successful outcomes requires looking at the bigger picture, including the pigmentary sequelae of acne.

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In a Next Steps in Derm video interview, conducted in conjunction with the Pigmentary Disorders Exchange Symposium, Dr. Bhatia details why it’s important to play the long game in acne treatment and consider what the skin will look like six months or a year later. He encourages dermatology clinicians to modify the structure of acne early on lest they find themselves “behind the eight ball.”

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Dr. Bhatia’s core message: “Treating the sequelae of acne is just as important as treating the acne itself.” He recommends a comprehensive approach, including photoprotective strategies, good skin care, compounds that can address uneven skin tone, and agents that target both pigmentation and scarring. By shifting the mindset to treat active lesions and their long-term consequences at the same time, dermatology clinicians can provide more proactive, effective care for acne patients.