From the Guidelines
To improve physical appearance, focus on a combination of lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, as these have been shown to reduce body fat, increase lean body mass, and improve overall health, as noted in the 2024 update from the American Heart Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation 1.
Key Recommendations
- Engage in at least moderate physical activity for 30 minutes or more on five or more days of the week, as recommended by the American Cancer Society 1
- Incorporate high-intensity interval training into your exercise routine to improve body composition, as suggested by the 2024 update from the American Heart Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation 1
- Prioritize a balanced diet and consider dietary supplements or medications to support weight control and body composition, as noted in the 2024 update from the American Heart Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation 1
- Ensure adequate sleep (7-8 hours nightly) and hydration (about 2 liters of water daily) to support skin clarity and under-eye appearance
Additional Considerations
- Pay attention to grooming basics like regular haircuts, neat nails, and good oral hygiene
- Choose clothing that fits properly and complements your body type
- Consider the potential benefits of appearance-focused interventions, such as self-guided booklets or peer counseling sessions, as noted in the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement 1
From the FDA Drug Label
In some instances, symptoms have been reported to persist after isotretinoin treatment has been stopped. 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