How can I manage my persistent acne and pimples?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have acne and pimples that I can’t get rid of despite trying numerous medicines; they keep popping up on my face again and again, changing locations each time on my nose, forehead, cheeks, or chin.

My face is covered with them. What should I do now?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concern.

I am well aware of the frustration that comes with recurrent or repetitive acne, which keeps coming back to haunt you at various sites on your face, despite treatment. This is certainly not an unusual situation, and you should take heart in the fact that it is completely manageable.

From what you have described to me, you have chronic inflammatory acne with comedonal elements.

I would recommend Adapalene along with Benzoyl peroxide gel. Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face, applied once daily at bedtime. To reduce irritation, apply it under a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer (you can moisturize first, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then apply Epiduo). Mild redness, dryness, or purging in the first two to four weeks is expected and does not mean the treatment is failing.

In the morning, wash your face with a gentle, refreshing cleanser (avoid harsh or medicated cleansers for now). Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or above every day, since the retinoids increase the sun sensitivity of the skin, and sunscreen is absolutely necessary for healing and preventing any kind of marks in acne.

In addition to the medicines, lifestyle changes will play an important part throughout life in treating acne. Do not touch or pick pimples too often, keep your pillowcases and towels clean, and use non-comedogenic (not oily) skincare products. Try to avoid consuming high glycemic foods (sugars, refined carbs), whey protein powders, and excessive dairy, since they may contribute to the worsening of acne in some cases. Good night's sleep, stress reduction, and regularity in skincare routine are crucial; treatment of acne proceeds gradually but persistently.

Follow this routine regularly and come for a follow-up after eight to 10 weeks, since acne treatment needs time to produce results. In this case, it will be possible to evaluate the results and modify the course if necessary (by adding the medication treatment if needed).

I hope this information was helpful for you. Take care.