Sydney specialist dermatologist Dr Ritu Gupta was featured on ABC Radio’s NSW Afternoons with Kathryn Robinson, appearing in the “Ask the Arvo’s Dermatologist” segment to answer listener questions on cystic acne.
Dr Ritu told listeners she sees patients with cystic acne every day at her Ultimo clinic, young and old, and answered questions from callers and texters throughout the segment.
Cystic acne affects teenagers and adults, and disproportionately women. It is a medical condition rather than a cosmetic one: it can be painful, it can scar, and it has a well-documented effect on confidence and quality of life. Dr Ritu explained that cystic acne is not simply a more severe version of ordinary acne. It sits deeper, spreads wider and generates far more inflammation, which is why standard acne products do not clear it.
That depth is also why it scars. Our guides to the different types of acne scarring and how picosecond lasers remodel scarred skin cover what can be done afterwards, though the more useful conversation is preventing scarring in the first place by treating the active acne early.
Callers asked about treatment options, about oral prescription medication and low-dose regimens, and about why acne comes back. Dr Ritu explained that there are now considerably more options than there once were, typically combining topical treatments, antibiotics, and procedures such as light therapy or laser. Among the topical agents, she has previously discussed the most common mistakes people make with azelaic acid, which is widely used in acne.
One point she has raised repeatedly is that not every persistent facial breakout is acne. Papulopustular rosacea is frequently mistaken for adult acne and responds to different treatment entirely, which is one reason diagnosis matters before treatment. She also noted in her recent feature on the business of tween beauty that a large part of a modern acne consultation is spent dispelling myths picked up from social media.
Dr Ritu stressed the importance of seeing a GP for a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan. Where specialist input is needed, a GP referral is generally required to claim a Medicare rebate, and obtaining that referral beforehand matters.
Listen to the full interview here: Ask the Arvo’s Dermatologist, ABC Listen
Find out more about Dr Ritu’s other acne features on ABC 702 Radio, in The Australian, and in The Sun-Herald and The Age for Acne Awareness Month.
To consult with Dr Ritu, please get in touch with us through our online enquiry form, message us through WhatsApp at 0493 766 096, or call (02) 8014 6500.
