If you’ve struggled with acne for years, you’ve probably heard of Accutane^®. But there’s a newer option that’s quickly gaining attention—and changing lives—called AviClear^®. Whether your breakouts are hormonal, cystic, or seemingly impossible to manage, you might be wondering: which one actually works better? What are the side effects? And how do you choose between them?

If you’ve been struggling with persistent, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne, chances are you’ve considered Accutane^®. Also known by its generic name isotretinoin, Accutane^® has a reputation as the “big guns” of acne treatment. And while it can deliver transformative results, one of the biggest questions we hear at CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers is: How much does Accutane^® actually cost?

Accutane^® (isotretinoin) is known for being one of the most effective acne treatments ever developed. For people struggling with severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne, it can feel like a miracle—clearing skin that no topical or antibiotic could touch. But while Accutane^® has a long track record of delivering dramatic results, it also comes with a reputation for serious side effects, including those that affect mental health.

Accutane^® (isotretinoin) is one of the most powerful and effective treatments for severe or stubborn acne. For many people, it can feel like a miracle—clearing skin when nothing else has worked. But it’s also known for its long list of potential side effects. While some are mild and manageable, others can be more significant, especially when it comes to how your body feels during treatment.

If you’ve been dealing with stubborn acne, chances are you’ve already heard about common antibiotics like doxycycline and clindamycin. But recently, a wave of new, prescription-only acne treatments has hit the market—promising targeted results with fewer side effects. So what’s new, and do these updated options really deliver?

If you’ve been battling stubborn, cystic, or scarring acne, there’s a good chance someone has mentioned isotretinoin—more commonly known by its original brand name, Accutane^®. For decades, it’s been considered the “nuclear option” for severe acne: a powerful oral medication that can dramatically reduce oil production and bring long-term clearance. But just because it’s effective doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for everyone.

If you’ve ever dealt with acne, chances are you’ve heard of retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or clindamycin. These classics have been around for decades—and for good reason. But in recent years, a new generation of prescription topical treatments has emerged. These formulas combine the effectiveness of traditional ingredients with improved tolerability, smarter delivery systems, and innovative mechanisms that go beyond surface-level care.

For many people struggling with acne, birth control is often recommended as part of their treatment plan. And while it can be incredibly effective at calming hormonal breakouts, it’s important to understand what else it might do to your body. Like any medication, birth control comes with potential side effects—and knowing what to expect can help you make an informed choice.

If your skin seems to break out on a schedule—flaring up around your period or clustering along your jawline—it’s not your imagination. Hormonal acne is real, and for many women, it’s one of the most frustrating types to manage. That’s one reason birth control has been used for decades as a way to not only prevent pregnancy but to calm breakouts and regulate skin. But how effective is birth control for acne, really?

When acne feels relentless—especially along the jawline, chin, or lower cheeks—your dermatologist might mention a treatment called oral spironolactone. Originally developed as a diuretic to treat high blood pressure, spironolactone has gained popularity in dermatology for its ability to reduce oil production and target the hormonal root of breakouts, especially in women. While it’s been a game-changer for many, it’s not a quick fix—and it’s not without potential downsides.

If you’ve been struggling with stubborn hormonal acne, you’ve probably come across the name “spironolactone.” Originally developed as a diuretic for heart patients, this medication has found a second life in dermatology—especially for women dealing with acne that just won’t quit. Spironolactone works differently from other acne treatments. Instead of targeting bacteria or clogged pores directly, it tackles one of acne’s root causes: hormones.

You may have heard of spironolactone in pill form, but there’s also a topical version that’s gaining popularity—especially among those dealing with hormonally driven breakouts. By delivering the oil-reducing effects of spironolactone directly to the skin, the topical form offers a more localized approach without the need for daily medication.

If you’ve been battling acne for a while, there’s a good chance someone—whether a dermatologist or a friend—has recommended oral antibiotics. Maybe you’ve already tried a round or two, or maybe you’re wondering whether they’re right for you. Either way, understanding how oral antibiotics work for acne can help you decide if they’re a good fit—or if it’s time to consider something longer lasting.

If you’ve struggled with acne, chances are you’ve heard of retinoids. These vitamin A derivatives are powerhouse ingredients known for clearing pores, speeding up cell turnover, and preventing breakouts. But among them, one stands out for its accessibility and effectiveness: adapalene.

If you’ve ever felt like nothing works for your acne—no cleanser, no spot treatment, no trendy TikTok hack—you’re not alone. But there’s one ingredient that dermatologists have trusted for decades, and it’s not just hype: tretinoin. This prescription-strength retinoid has stood the test of time for a reason. It helps unclog pores, speed up cell turnover, fade acne marks, and even prevent future breakouts.

Acne can feel relentless—just when one breakout starts to clear, another one pops up. If you’ve been prescribed a topical antibiotic or are wondering whether it could help, you’re in the right place. We specialize in helping clients find lasting relief from persistent acne using cutting-edge treatments like AviClear^®, but we also believe in educating our clients about all the tools that may play a role in your skin journey—including topical antibiotics.

Acne can feel like a never-ending cycle. You treat one breakout, and another pops up right behind it. You change your cleanser, try a new serum, cut out dairy—but nothing seems to truly stop the breakouts from coming. That’s because acne is rarely just a surface issue. It’s part of a deeper, more complex chain reaction happening within your skin.

When it comes to tackling acne, we often focus on high-tech treatments, prescription products, and the latest trending ingredient. But sometimes, the most powerful results come from getting the basics right. Basic skin care isn’t just for beginners—it’s the essential foundation that supports every other step you take toward clearer skin.