How do I manage red marks on my cheeks after acne?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 19 years old. Earlier, I had glass-like skin. After that, I started having acne, which got better slowly, but then again, I had pimples and acne. I went to a dermatologist and am taking Isotretinoin. The medicines and creams he gave me are working, but the red marks on my cheeks are not leaving. I am also drinking turmeric water for this. How can I get rid of it completely?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand how upsetting it can feel, especially when you remember having clear, glass-like skin before and now see persistent red marks even though your active acne has improved. Please be reassured that what you are describing is very common at your age and, most importantly, treatable with patience and the right care.

From your history, the red marks on your cheeks are post-inflammatory erythema. These are red or pink marks left behind after acne heals. They are caused by inflammation and dilated superficial blood vessels, not ongoing acne or infection. This is why they can linger even when pimples stop appearing. Drinking turmeric water is generally safe and may support overall health, but unfortunately, it cannot remove acne marks on its own.

As you are already on Isotretinoin, it is very important to be gentle with your skin.
Avoid scrubs, harsh face washes, lemon, Fuller’s Earth, home remedies, or frequent facials, as these can worsen redness and delay healing.
Use a mild, soap-free cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturizer at least twice daily, and strict sunscreen every morning, even if you stay indoors.
Sun exposure is one of the biggest reasons red marks take longer to fade.
Most acne-related red marks fade gradually over three to six months, sometimes longer, especially while on Isotretinoin safely.
To manage red marks, you can start using low-dose Azelaic acid along with Isotretinoin.
In the evening, after washing your face with a mild cleanser and letting the skin dry completely for 15 to 20 minutes:
- Apply Azelaic acid cream 10%, only a pea-sized amount for the entire face or just a thin layer over the affected cheek areas.
- After applying Azelaic acid, wait for about ten minutes, then apply a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer on top.
- Initially, keep it on for about two hours daily, and then gently wash it off.

Continue this regimen for at least three to four weeks to see effective results. I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.