How can I safely treat cheek acne and old acne scars?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been having persistent acne on my cheeks along with some scars and frequent breakouts. I have recently started using an anti-acne face wash and applying Adapalene (Adapco) gel at night, but I am not seeing much improvement yet.

What should I do next?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

It looks like you are dealing with active acne on your cheeks, along with old scars and new breakouts, and that can definitely feel frustrating. The routine you have started is good, and with a few adjustments, we can get your skin under better control.

Here is a treatment plan I would recommend for you

As for oral medication, take Doxycycline 100 mg once daily for 15 days. This will help calm the inflammation and reduce active pimples. Please note to

Take it after food.
Avoid taking it with milk.

This medicine usually helps settle things down quickly.

For the morning routine, you can use

Clinagel (Clindamycin one percent), apply a light layer only on the active pimples.
Sunscreen, SPF 50+ (sun protection factor 50+).
Sunscreen is important because it prevents scars from getting darker.

As for the night routine, you can continue with Adapco (Adapalene). Just a pea-sized amount for the whole face.

Some dryness or peeling is normal. If it feels too dry, use a simple non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Here is what you can expect:

You should start noticing improvement within four to six weeks.
Scars will fade slowly as the breakouts subside.
If needed later, we can discuss treatments such as peels or microneedling for deeper scars.

Here are a few helpful tips for you:

Try not to pick or squeeze. This makes scars worse.
Use a gentle face wash twice a day.
Stick to the routine even if you don’t see immediate changes; acne takes time to settle.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.