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Pediatric Dermatology Experts in Wellesley
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions seen in children and adolescents—and while it’s often considered a rite of passage, it can significantly affect a child’s self-esteem and lead to long-term scarring if left untreated. At Premier Dermatology in Wellesley, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric acne and acne scarring using advanced, age-appropriate therapies tailored to the unique needs of young patients.
Our team proudly serves children and teens from Boston, Weston, Newton, Needham, and surrounding areas, offering expert care in a compassionate, supportive setting.

Understanding Acne Scarring in Children & Teens
Acne in children is frequently triggered by hormonal changes during pre-adolescence and puberty, which increase oil production and inflammation. Without proper treatment, breakouts—especially severe or cystic acne—can leave behind permanent scars on the face, chest, or back.
Common causes of acne scarring in kids include:
- Hormonal acne in kids, often starting around ages 8–12
- Picking or squeezing pimples, which damages the skin
- Inflammatory acne, such as nodules or cysts
- Delayed or inadequate treatment during early flare-ups
Early intervention is key in both controlling active acne and preventing long-term scarring.
Who Is a Candidate for Pediatric Acne and Acne Scar Treatment?
Most children and teens who experience mild to severe acne may benefit from professional treatment—especially if breakouts are persistent, cystic, or beginning to scar. Your child may be a candidate for care at Premier Dermatology if they:
- Have visible blackheads, whiteheads, cystic or inflammatory acne
- Are experiencing early signs of acne scarring
- Feel self-conscious or emotionally impacted by their skin
- Have not responded to over-the-counter acne treatments
- Need a safe, age-appropriate skin care plan tailored to their skin type
- Are preteens, teens, or older children with hormonal acne
Our pediatric dermatologists specialize in working with younger patients, using compassionate care and personalized plans to address acne at every stage.
Our Treatment Options for Pediatric Acne and Acne Scarring
At Premier Dermatology, we offer comprehensive, personalized treatment plans designed specifically for children and teens. Every treatment begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying causes of acne and any scarring.
Our treatment options include:
- Topical therapies – Prescription creams and gels tailored to sensitive or young skin types
- Oral medications – Including antibiotics or hormonal treatments (when appropriate and age-approved)
- Chemical peels – Gentle formulations to exfoliate skin and reduce acne breakouts and hyperpigmentation
- Laser treatment for acne scars in Weston and nearby areas – Non-invasive technology to improve texture and minimize visible scars
- Customized skincare plans – Education on safe, at-home care to support clear skin between visits
Whether your child is experiencing early-stage acne or dealing with persistent scarring, we offer acne scar removal for children in Boston and surrounding areas, focusing on safety, effectiveness, and age-appropriate care.
What to Expect During Treatment
The process starts with a comprehensive skin evaluation at our Wellesley clinic. During the visit, we will:
- Examine your child’s skin condition and acne type
- Discuss triggers such as hormones, stress, or skincare habits
- Identify any current scarring or pigmentation issues
- Recommend a customized treatment plan
We offer medical-grade solutions and lifestyle guidance to help your child take control of their skin and build healthy habits early. In many cases, treatments are non-invasive and easily integrated into a child or teen’s routine.

Recovery and Downtime
Most pediatric acne and acne scarring treatments involve little to no downtime, mainly when using non-invasive options like topicals, chemical peels, or laser therapies. Here’s what to expect:
- Topical and oral medications: Minimal side effects when used correctly; some dryness or irritation may occur
- Chemical peels: Mild redness or flaking for 1–3 days
- Laser therapy: Mild swelling or redness, usually resolving within 24–48 hours
- Daily skincare: Our team will teach your child gentle, effective routines for long-term skin health
We always tailor treatments to be safe, tolerable, and suitable for your child’s age, lifestyle, and skin condition.
Benefits of Professional Acne and Acne Scar Treatment for Children
Choosing early, professional treatment for pediatric acne offers a wide range of benefits for skin health and emotional well-being. At Premier Dermatology, we focus on gentle, effective therapies that are customized for your child or teen.
Key benefits include:
- Reduction in active breakouts and inflammation
- Prevention or softening of permanent acne scars
- Improved skin texture and tone
- Boosted self-esteem and confidence
- Education on safe, age-appropriate skincare habits
- Access to medically supervised treatments with fewer side effects
- Long-term skin health and reduced future complications
Whether your child is experiencing their first breakouts or struggling with long-term acne, our approach provides clinical solutions in a warm, supportive environment.
Cost of Pediatric Acne and Acne Scar Treatments
Treatment costs depend on the type and complexity of care needed. At Premier Dermatology, we:
- Offer transparent pricing and treatment recommendations during your consultation
- Accept most major insurance plans
- Provide payment plans or flexible options for cosmetic treatments such as laser scar therapy
We’ll help you understand all options before beginning any treatment so there are no surprises.

Why Choose Premier Dermatology for Pediatric Acne and Acne Scarring Treatment?
Parents across Wellesley, Boston, Newton, Weston, and Needham trust Premier Dermatology because of our:
- Board-certified dermatologists with expertise in pediatric skin care
- Compassionate approach that puts children and teens at ease
- Customized treatment plans built around age, skin sensitivity, and emotional well-being
- Access to advanced laser technologies and minimally invasive scar treatments
- Focus on prevention, education, and long-term skin health
We understand the emotional and social impact acne can have during childhood and adolescence. That’s why we work closely with families to build a treatment plan that improves the skin and supports confidence and comfort, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should children start acne treatment?
Acne can begin as early as age eight due to hormonal shifts. If your child shows signs of early breakouts or blackheads, it’s never too soon to meet with a dermatologist to prevent future scarring.
Is laser treatment safe for children?
Yes! We use gentle, clinically proven laser technologies that are safe and effective for pediatric use. Treatment is always tailored to your child’s age and skin sensitivity.
Can pediatric acne scars be fully removed?
While complete scar removal may not be possible in every case, early treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of scars and improve overall skin texture.
How long does treatment take to see results?
Topical and oral treatments typically show improvement within 6–8 weeks. Laser scar therapy may require a series of sessions for optimal results.
Does Premier Dermatology treat acne in teens and preteens?
Not always. Upper eyelid surgery can sometimes improve peripheral vision by lifting sagging skin that obstructs the field of view.
Look Forward to Clearer Skin
If your child is struggling with acne or acne scarring, Premier Dermatology in Wellesley is here to help. We proudly serve families in Boston, Weston, Newton, Needham, and beyond with compassionate care and proven treatments for young skin.
Schedule a pediatric dermatology consultation today and take the first step toward healthier, more confident skin for your child.
Now accepting new patients!
Your Premier destination for all your skin care needs. Dr. Burnett, a dermatologist in Wellesley, is a sought-after expert in the field of medical, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology and has practiced in the greater Boston area for more than 15 years. At Premier Dermatology we offer the latest, most innovative, and proven treatments in cosmetic dermatology and skincare. We are committed to supporting all your skincare goals to achieve heatlhy, beautiful, and natural results. Dr. Burnett lives in Weston, MA with her husband and two teenage daughters. Dr. Burnett also enjoys traveling with her family.

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