Acne and acne scars can appear at any age and take a real toll on your confidence. At our Antwerp clinic, we see patients every day dealing with active breakouts, stubborn scarring, or both. The good news is there are effective, clinically-backed treatments for each.
Acne: causes and the best remedies
Acne is usually caused by a combination of factors, including:
- - Excess sebum production: overactive oil glands make the skin greasier and clog pores more easily.
- - Clogged pores: dead skin cells and sebum build up inside the hair follicle, forming blackheads and whiteheads.
- - Bacterial growth: the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes multiplies in clogged pores and triggers inflammation.
- - Hormonal fluctuations: puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and conditions like PCOS raise androgen activity, which stimulates oil production.
Common remedies used to keep acne under control include:
- - Benzoyl peroxide: reduces bacteria and dries excess oil.
- - Salicylic acid: helps exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
- - Alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, which remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
- - Topical medication: retinoids or antibiotics, usually prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist.
Hormonal fluctuations play a particularly large role in adult acne, especially in women, as confirmed in clinical research. That's why we tailor every treatment to the underlying cause, not just the visible symptoms.
Professional treatments for acne and acne scars at our Antwerp clinic
Alongside a good home routine, we offer a number of targeted in-clinic treatments for active acne and acne scarring.
Our Hydrafacial, with a dedicated acne booster, deep-cleans the pores, removes excess oil, and calms inflammation without damaging the skin.
Our iS Clinical peels improve skin texture, reduce clogged pores, and help fade post-acne discoloration.
For redness and pigmentation left behind by acne, we use Lumecca IPL, which targets the blood vessels and pigment cells beneath the skin.
For deeper, pitted scars, we recommend Morpheus8 RF microneedling, which can fade scars by an average of up to 50% by stimulating new collagen production. We often pair this with PRP: research shows that combining microneedling with PRP leads to significantly better improvement and higher patient satisfaction than microneedling alone.
What results can you expect?
Active acne typically responds within 4 to 6 weeks to a combination of in-clinic treatment and a consistent home routine. Scar treatments like Morpheus8 or microneedling with PRP require more patience: collagen rebuilding is a gradual process, and most patients see full improvement only after 3 to 6 months and multiple sessions.
Because every skin and every scar type responds differently, we build a personalized treatment plan with a realistic timeline during your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best skincare for acne-prone skin?
The right routine depends on your specific skin, which is why we always recommend a personalized product consultation rather than one-size-fits-all advice. In clinic, we carry two retail lines: iS Clinical, a medical-grade skincare range, and Rebiome, a natural line formulated to strengthen the skin's microbiome. Our specialists can advise which specific products from either range fit your skin best, alongside in-clinic treatments like the Hydrafacial with acne booster.
What professional treatments are there for deep acne scars (pitted scars)?
For deep, pitted scars (ice-pick and boxcar scars), Morpheus8 RF microneedling, often combined with PRP, is the most effective option. This combination stimulates new collagen production deeper in the skin than microneedling alone, which matters for pits that reach into the deeper skin layers.
Can you remove acne scars with laser?
Laser and light therapy like Lumecca IPL can effectively reduce redness and pigmentation left by old acne, but it's less suited to the indentation of the scar itself. For scar volume and texture, RF microneedling (Morpheus8), with or without PRP, generally works better because it reaches deeper into the skin.
How do laser treatments for acne scars compare across Belgian clinics?
Most clinics in Belgium offer one of three categories: IPL/laser for redness and pigment, RF microneedling for scar texture and volume, or a combination with PRP for extra recovery support. At Pêche we tailor this approach: we first determine the cause and scar type, then build the right combination of treatments for you.
Where can I book acne scar treatment in Belgium?
At Pêche Skin Clinic in Antwerp, you can book a free consultation where we assess your skin and scars and propose a personalized treatment plan. You can book directly online or contact us for more information.
Book your acne consultation in Antwerp
Ready to deal with your acne or acne scars? Book a free consultation at our Antwerp clinic and let our specialists assess your skin, explain your options, and create a plan tailored to you.
