Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have acne and acne scars, and a lot of facial hair. My face looks dull. I want treatment for these.
Please guide.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand how distressing these skin issues can feel. Concerns such as acne, marks, unwanted facial hair, dryness, and dullness can significantly impact your confidence.
Please do not feel discouraged; these issues are common among young women and are treatable. However, treatment needs to be approached step by step and correctly.
Before starting any specific medications, I will need a bit more information to guide you safely and effectively.
If possible, please share clear pictures of your face in good lighting (from the front and sides).
Additionally, let me know the answers to the following questions:
Does your acne or hair growth worsen around your period?
Are your periods regular or irregular?
Have you noticed any weight gain, hair loss, or darkening of the skin around your neck or underarms (which may suggest PCOS)?
Is there any itching or burning on your face?
Have you ever used fairness whitening creams, steroid creams, or over-the-counter mixed creams without a prescription?
Have you previously taken any acne medications (tablets or creams)? Is your skin dry, oily, or a combination?
You should start a proper general skincare routine immediately, as this forms the foundation for treating acne and pigmentation.
Wash your face twice daily using a gentle cleanser and avoid scrubs or harsh soaps. If you are using any fairness creams, bleaching agents, or steroid-containing creams, please stop using them completely, as they can worsen acne, pigmentation, and unwanted facial hair.
Even if your skin feels oily or is prone to acne, it is important to use a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer. This is because dryness can actually aggravate both acne and dullness.
Every morning, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) 50. Regular sun protection is essential to prevent acne marks from becoming darker and more persistent.
Lastly, avoid touching, squeezing, or picking at acne lesions, as this can increase inflammation and lead to more marks and scarring.
Regarding acne and acne marks, it is crucial to control active acne first before focusing on treating marks or hair removal. Once the acne is under control, the marks will gradually improve with proper treatment. Treating the marks without addressing the acne will not yield effective results.
Excess facial hair often has a hormonal cause, such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). The best long-term solution is laser hair reduction, but it should be done only after the acne is under control. Otherwise, the acne may worsen.
You have taken an important first step by asking for help. With proper evaluation and consistent care, your skin and confidence can improve significantly.
Please share the pictures and your answers to the questions above, and we will move forward with a personalized treatment plan.
I hope this guidance proves helpful. I appreciate any feedback you have for better patient care, and if you have any further concerns, feel free to contact me anytime.
Thank you so much for reaching out.
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Answered byDr. Misha Saghir
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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