From the Guidelines
To improve physical appearance, focus on a combination of skincare, fitness, and lifestyle modifications, as these have been shown to have a significant impact on overall health and appearance.
Key Recommendations
- Start with a consistent skincare routine including cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen daily, as recommended by studies such as 1 and 1.
- Add retinol products like Differin (adapalene 0.1%) a few nights per week to improve skin texture and reduce fine lines.
- For fitness, aim for at least moderate activity for 30 minutes or more on five or more days of the week, as suggested by 1, and consider high-intensity interval training to improve body composition, as noted in 1.
- Ensure adequate sleep (7-8 hours nightly) and hydration (about 2 liters of water daily) as these significantly affect skin quality and overall appearance.
- Pay attention to grooming basics like regular haircuts every 4-6 weeks, nail care, and dental hygiene including twice-daily brushing and flossing.
- Choose clothing that fits well and complements your body type rather than following trends that may not suit you.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Consider dietary therapies and supplements to reduce body fat and increase lean body mass, as discussed in 1.
- Surgical or interventional therapies can also be considered for significant weight reduction, as mentioned in 1. These practices work together because appearance improvements come from both external care and internal health—exercise increases circulation and reduces stress, proper hydration supports skin elasticity, and quality sleep allows cellular repair, all contributing to a healthier, more attractive appearance.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Methods for Improving Physical Appearance
There are various methods available for improving physical appearance, including:
- Topical treatments such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid for acne vulgaris 2
- Oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and isotretinoin for more severe acne cases 2
- Energy-based treatments like laser and radiofrequency for acne scarring 3
- Chemical-based treatments such as peels and TCA cross for acne scarring 3
- Surgical-based options like subcision and punch excision for acne scarring 3
- Microneedling and fillers or fat injections for acne scarring 3
- Hydroquinone therapy for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation secondary to acne 4
- Dietary interventions, such as increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, which may have a positive impact on skin appearance 5
Treatment Options for Acne
For mild-to-moderate acne, the most effective treatment options include:
- Topical pharmacological treatments, such as combined retinoid with benzoyl peroxide 6
- Physical treatments, such as chemical peels and photochemical therapy 6 For moderate-to-severe acne, the most effective treatment options include:
- Topical pharmacological treatment combinations, such as combined retinoid with lincosamide 6
- Oral pharmacological treatments, such as isotretinoin 6, 2
- Photodynamic therapy 6
Dietary Influence on Appearance
Dietary intake may also influence perception of and measured appearance, with studies suggesting that a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables may have a positive impact on skin appearance 5