How to get rid of acne without the use of prescription drugs?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had been using Retin-A with Doxycycline monohydrate for two years until I went to the dermatologist and changed my prescription to Tazorac with Finacea and Amoxicillin and I have been using that for the last two years (all these are for my acne in case you have not guessed it already). My concern is that I am getting tired of using all these prescription-strength products and do not want to continue using them since I feel that I will become immune to them. Also, I just do not prefer prescription drugs in general.

A few months back, I stopped taking my prescription drugs and I began to get major cystic acne on my chin and not anywhere else. At this time, I was also using an ultrasonic cleaning brush. I am not sure which was the cause of my breakouts. I have begun to use my current prescription medications again and I have stopped using the ultrasonic cleaning brush. I have a few questions which are as follows:

When, if ever possible, can I stop using my prescription drugs with confidence with the hope that it will not break out like before, again?
Should I completely rule out using the ultrasonic cleaning brush, or could I reincorporate it somehow without major breakouts happening?
A little off-topic, but I know some people who use coconut oil for their acne. Not that I would drop everything and use this solely, but do you recommend (or at least condone) it? I have previously been scolded for asking a dermatologist about this because it is comedogenic, but I wonder why it works so well for other people.

Getting these questions answered by you would help me so much. Kindly help. Thank you for your consideration.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I will help you understand this issue better.

Well, taking antibiotics for such a long time is not a wise option. You can use creams for mild issues. Acne is an age-related problem and can occur due to hormonal imbalance at this age. I suggest you not panic and take medicines only if you get an outbreak. If you get 1one or two acnes, then you just apply topical cream. Do not use coconut oil since it does not help. It has no role in acne treatment. It just keeps the skin smooth. Pimple somewhat occurs due to hormonal issues and oily skin. I suggest you do the following:

1. Do not use hair oil and any sticky cream on your face.

2. Avoid oily foods, chocolates, and milk products.

3. Avoid dust and use sunscreen with above 30 SPF (sun protection factor).

4. Do not rub your face after applying any cream.

5. Do not use any steroid creams.

6. Continue the treatment for at least one month.

7. Facewashes or soaps are not the ideal treatment options and are not much useful.

8. Do not touch the acne and avoid pressing it.

I hope you had a pleasant experience at icliniq.

Thank you.