How can I manage acne and acne marks as a 19-year-old girl?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you so much for sharing your query with me. I completely understand what you are going through, and I appreciate you sharing the pictures (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity) for better clarity.

At 19 years of age, having acne for the past two years is very common and completely treatable, so please do not feel discouraged. From your description and pictures, you appear to have moderate acne along with acne marks (dark spots). This sounds like a combination of active pimples and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The dark marks are not permanent scars in most cases; they are pigments left behind after inflammation, and they gradually fade with proper treatment and sun protection.

For moderate acne, your treatment regimen needs a combination approach. For daily care, use a simple, refreshing face wash, followed by a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Avoid using petroleum jelly, as it can clog pores and further worsen acne. Sunscreen is very important, so a SPF 30 or higher should be applied every morning, even indoors, to prevent worsening of pigmentation.

For acne management, you can start Persol Plus (Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide) at night daily. Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire face over a gentle moisturizer to protect your skin barrier. This will help improve skin texture, comedones, and some hyperpigmentation. Once the active acne improves, you can incorporate Kojivit Plus cream (Kolic acid dipalmitate, arbutin, mulberry extract, grape seed oil, Glycolic acid, vitamin E, allantoin, and octinoxate) to help with post-acne hyperpigmentation.

Avoid harsh scrubs, overwashing, or picking at your skin. Keep your hands clean and maintain a balanced diet and good hydration. Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, it is important to introduce products slowly and monitor your tolerance. Be patient with the treatment, as it usually takes six to eight weeks to see noticeable improvement. Consistent use of sunscreen and moisturizers is key to recovery.

I want to reassure you that with proper care, gentle treatment, and patience, your skin can improve significantly over time. You are not alone in this, and your skin concerns are completely valid. Please feel free to follow up regularly so we can adjust your treatment based on your response.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.