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How can I safely manage my acne and pigmentation at 28?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 28-year-old woman struggling with adult acne and uneven pigmentation on my cheeks and chin. I have been using topical Adapalene and Niacinamide serum for three months with mild improvement, but I still get new breakouts during my periods. My dermatologist suggested adding Spironolactone, but I am worried about side effects.

  • Would hormone testing help before starting it?

  • Can I continue using retinoids with it?

Kindly help.
Answered by Dr. Sanya Dhingra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I would like you to know that adult acne could be hormonal acne or post-adolescent acne that you are suffering from. This is usually triggered by

  1. Hormonal imbalance.

  2. Stress.

  3. Too much makeup as clog your pores.

  4. Unhealthy lifestyle.

  5. Unhealthy diet.

I would like to know if you have a disturbed or irregular menstrual cycle as well, or hair thinning or facial hair. This could also be indicative of PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome). PCOS is polycystic ovarian syndrome. This is a lifestyle disorder where the ovaries develop cysts, and there are facial hair changes and irregular menstruation.

Spironolactone is an anti-androgenic medicine that can be used for your acne, but it usually shows results only after three to four months of use. It has minimal side effects like headache, fatigue. It is a safe and effective medicine. I also suggest that you get a few tests

  1. Ultrasound of the pelvis.

  2. Complete blood count.

  3. Thyroid function test.

  4. Serum prolactin.

These tests can identify PCOS or any other gynecological problems you have.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 16, 2026
Reviewed At January 19, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Adult Acne Hormonal Decision Helper

Is Hormonal Acne Behind Your Breakouts?

Answer a few quick questions to see if hormonal factors might be contributing to your adult acne and pigmentation concerns.

This tool provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Dr. Sanya Dhingra
Dr. Sanya Dhingra

General Practitioner

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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