How do I manage acne along with post-acne pigmentation?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the photographs and your description (the attachments were removed to protect the patient's identity), you currently have active inflammatory acne (red pimples), along with post-acne pigmentation and early, shallow textural scars on the cheeks.

The priority at this stage is to control the active acne first, as treating pigmentation or scars aggressively while acne is still active can worsen breakouts.

For your daily skincare routine, start with a gentle cleanser, such as a mild hydrating face wash, used twice daily. Avoid scrubs, face brushes, or harsh cleansers, as these can irritate acne-prone skin and worsen pigmentation.

In the morning, apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) using the two-finger rule for the face and neck. Sunscreen is extremely important because sun exposure can darken post-acne marks, make scars more noticeable, and slow skin healing. Reapply if you are outdoors for prolonged periods.

To treat active acne, apply Persol Plus cream (Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide) at night. Use only a pea-sized amount for the entire face, applied as a thin layer on completely dry skin. Avoid the corners of the eyes, lips, and nose.

Some mild dryness or a slight tingling in the first week or two is very common and usually eases off by itself. Just be careful not to use too much or keep dabbing extra onto problem spots, and try to resist picking or squeezing pimples, since that's what often leaves behind dark marks and scars.

Once your active acne has settled (usually after about four weeks), you may start Kojivit gel (Kojic acid dipalmitate) at bedtime, applied only on the pigmented dark spots, not on active pimples. Use a very small amount and follow it with a light moisturizer.

Kojivit helps gradually lighten post-acne pigmentation, but improvement requires consistency. Continue this treatment for four to six weeks to see visible improvement in acne and gradual lightening of the marks.

When it comes to scars and uneven texture, the shallow early ones usually soften on their own once your acne is under control and the inflammation has eased. Looking after your skin properly and being consistent with sun protection helps them fade and even out over time.

If scars are still there once your acne has fully cleared, treatments like microneedling, subcision, radiofrequency microneedling, or fractional CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser can be considered later on, under a dermatologist's guidance. These are only recommended once the acne has completely settled.

The everyday habits count just as much. Try to keep your hands off your face, avoid steroid or fairness creams altogether, don't pile on heavy makeup, wash your face after you've been sweating, and look after yourself with a balanced diet and decent sleep. Acne clears up slowly rather than overnight, so sticking with it and giving it time is what really pays off.

You have taken the right step by seeking advice early, and with regular treatment and follow-up, your skin is expected to improve significantly.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again for further queries.

Thank you.