How can recurrent, painful, and infected acne be treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing acne for seven years and I have taken treatments from several dermatologists, but the acne reoccurs after six months following the treatment. And I have cysts and pustules that pop on their own and there is pus discharge from these for a few days. They are too painful and the infection spreads quickly. I have also observed a symmetrical pattern of acne (cones on both sides of the cheeks and chin). Recently, I am having an episode for the last two months.

My initial treatments consisted of Isotretinoin, but I suffered from severe rectal bleeding. Also, I took tablets Dapsone, Doxycycline, Minocycline, and Amoxycillin. I took blood tests and USG abdomen pelvis. I have tried almost everything, but it does not seem to go. Please help me with further treatment and what should I do next.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I appreciate that you have chosen icliniq for your medical needs.

I have read your concern. Acne is a chronic problem that requires a longer duration of treatment with a waxing and waning course. In your case, the treatment of choice is tablet Isotretinoin but since you were not able to tolerate this, I suggest you take capsule Doxycycline 100 mg once daily and apply Clindamycin and Nicotinamide (Faceclin) gel in the morning and use 3.5 % Benzoyl peroxide (Microbenz) daily at night after consulting with your general practitioner or a dermatologist.

Also, I suggest you use Cocamido propyl betaine (Ridacne) foaming face wash twice daily. Do not take oily, spicy, and junk foods and also dairy products. Try to avoid a nonvegetarian diet and drink lots of water daily as it will keep your skin hydrated.

I hope you had a pleasant experience at icliniq.

Thank you.