iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersDermatologyacne

How to manage acne and dark spots in a 19-year-old?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 19 years old, very skinny, and weigh 105 pounds. I have had a lot of acne and dark spots on my face since I was 14 years old. I have tried many things, but nothing has worked. What should I do now?

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the history provided, the condition appears to be acne vulgaris along with post-acne hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Acne commonly occurs due to hormonal fluctuations, imbalances, genetic factors, climate changes, dietary habits, or reactions to new skincare products. It can also be aggravated by consuming oily, fried, and sugary foods. An inadequate diet may also trigger acne due to reduced immunity and hormonal imbalances. Acne tends to appear intermittently, but it can be managed each time with proper care.

I suggest you follow a few steps:

  1. Use a face wash containing Salicylic and Glycolic acid. Apply and massage gently in circular motions for about one minute, then rinse off.
  2. Use a gel containing Clindamycin and Nicotinamide. Apply directly to the pimples twice daily.
  3. Take 500 mg of Vitamin C chewable tablets (Ascorbic acid tablets). Take one tablet daily at night after food. Chew thoroughly before swallowing.
  4. Take a vitamin E supplement capsule. Take one capsule daily in the morning after food with water.
  5. Also, take supplements containing vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and zinc. Take one capsule at night after food. This can help reduce acne and improve appetite regulation.
  6. Do not skip meals. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet with regular meal timings to help prevent further acne flare-ups.
  7. Avoid oily and fried foods, milk and dairy products, sweets, and chocolates, as they can trigger acne.
  8. Consume more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich food, and ensure adequate hydration with at least 10 glasses of water a day.
  9. Glycolic acid peels once a month can help manage existing acne and dark spots. You should consult a dermatologist in person to assess suitability and for further procedure details. If your doctor advises, these medications may be continued alongside chemical peels.

Acne can be managed with appropriate medications and by avoiding external triggers as mentioned above. However, internal triggers like hormonal fluctuations may not be entirely controllable. For most individuals, acne tends to improve with age as hormone levels stabilize. Additionally, please share a clear image of your skin using the image upload option available in this query session. This will help assess the severity of your acne and recommend further management if necessary.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 11, 2025
Reviewed AtJuly 11, 2025

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.