Has anyone seen results from acne treatment?

I've had mild acne since middle school, and I assumed it would naturally disappear as I became an adult. However, it has lasted longer than I expected, so I am seriously looking into acne treatments these days. Currently, it isn't severe enough to break out all over my face, but the recurring breakouts around my cheeks and chin are the most stressful. In particular, the spots where the acne has cleared up don't clear up immediately; red marks remain for a while, making my skin look messier due to the marks than the new breakouts.

I have never received any professional acne treatment and have only been doing home care using products I bought online that were recommended. At first, my skin seems to improve, but then it flares up again after a few days, so I feel like there is a limit to how much I can manage it on my own. I am considering getting acne treatment at a dermatology clinic, but now that I am actually about to schedule a consultation, I am not sure which treatment would be best to start with.

I am curious if receiving acne treatment not only calms down current breakouts but also reduces recurring breakouts. I would also like to know how long it takes for the treatment's effects to become visible. I am also wondering if there are cases where the skin becomes more sensitive or dry after treatment. I would like to hear from those with experience regarding whether I can expect sufficient results even if I am struggling with chronic acne like I am.