Skin health guide · RDG Clinic
Acne diagnosis and treatment in Riga
Acne is not only a teenage or cosmetic concern. A dermatologist assesses severity, scarring risk, and possible contributing factors to create an individual treatment plan.
Acne
Acne may begin in adolescence and continue into adulthood
Acne develops when sebum, blocked follicles, inflammation, and other factors affect the hair-follicle and sebaceous-gland unit. It may appear as open or closed comedones, inflamed papules and pustules, or deeper painful nodules.
Treatment is selected according to lesion type, severity, affected areas, previous therapy, risk of scarring or pigment change, and relevant health information. The same approach is not suitable for everyone.
Latvian audio · English subtitles
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Video transcript
Today a young patient with acne attended her first consultation with Dr Viktorija Muraško. The clinician assessed her skin and created an individual treatment plan. The patient also received cryomassage that day as one part of her ongoing care.
In this case, six sessions at approximately weekly intervals were planned, although this schedule is not suitable for everyone. Acne generally does not simply disappear on its own. Starting appropriate treatment earlier may reduce the risk of post-acne scarring. Further therapy and follow-up must be tailored to the individual patient.
When to see a dermatologist
When to see a dermatologist
- Breakouts are painful, deep, or leaving scars
- Non-prescription skincare is ineffective or irritating
- Acne suddenly worsens or begins in adulthood
- Acne is significantly affecting wellbeing, confidence, or daily life
Accurate diagnosis
How assessment works
The dermatologist assesses lesion type, distribution, and scarring risk and discusses skincare, medication, health history, and previous treatment. Tests are not required for everyone but may be appropriate when there are signs of a hormonal or another associated condition.
An individual plan
Treatment approach
Treatment aims to control active inflammation, prevent new lesions, and reduce scarring risk. Progress is generally assessed over weeks and months rather than a few days.
Skincare
Gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, moisturising, and daily sun protection help support the skin barrier during treatment.
Topical treatment
Depending on the acne pattern, treatment may target blocked follicles, bacteria, or inflammation. Combination approaches can address more than one mechanism.
Systemic treatment
Moderate or severe acne may require prescription oral medication with appropriate safety assessment and monitoring.
Scars and marks
Active acne is controlled first. Scar type and suitable correction are then assessed separately; one procedure does not suit every type of scarring.
A closer look at a specific situation
Dr. Viktorija Muraško explains why timely teenage-acne treatment matters
Latvian audio · English subtitles
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Video transcript
Today we are discussing teenage acne. It is an inflammatory skin condition influenced by genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle. Acne may appear as both superficial and deeper papules and pustules. It should not simply be endured in the hope that it will disappear on its own. Starting treatment earlier may reduce the risk of lasting scars. Initial improvement is often seen within two to three months, but durable results require longer-term care and regular follow-up. A dermatologist determines the treatment methods and duration individually.
Long-term control
What to expect
Irritation can occur when treatment begins, and improvement is rarely immediate. The doctor explains application order, expected timing, and follow-up. The plan is adjusted if the condition worsens or treatment is not tolerated.
This information does not replace medical consultation. Seek urgent medical care for sudden, severe, or rapidly progressive symptoms.
Dermatologists
Frequently asked questions
Does acne only affect teenagers?
No. Acne often begins around puberty but may continue or first appear in adulthood.
How quickly can I expect improvement?
Timing depends on treatment and severity. A meaningful first review is often made after several weeks, while sustained control can take longer.
Can procedures replace acne treatment?
Procedures are generally an adjunct in selected situations rather than a replacement for diagnosis and core treatment. Active acne should be addressed first.
Medical sources
Content updated: 25 September 2026
Treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis
After assessment, the dermatologist will explain the appropriate plan and costs. There is no single fixed treatment price because it depends on the diagnosis and therapy required.