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I am 19, female. How can I manage my PCOS-related acne?

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. I have acne issues due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). My skin has become dull, with frequent breakouts, and the post-acne marks are not improving. What steps should I take to manage this?

Kindly advise.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand how frustrating it can be to deal with persistent breakouts, dullness, and post-acne marks. There is no need to worry. All concerns will be addressed step by step, with detailed guidance on acne management and the reasons behind its occurrence.

Acne due to hormonal causes can feel stubborn, but with the right approach, skin texture, brightness, and future breakouts can be significantly improved. Proper management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) under medical supervision is very important, as hormonal control helps prevent new acne lesions and can also reduce unwanted hair growth over time. This plays a key role in long-term skin health and overall well-being.

  • Use a gentle facial cleanser, followed by a lightweight moisturiser or a dermive sensitive moisturiser to soothe and protect the skin barrier.

  • After this, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning to prevent further pigmentation and protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage.

  • For acne treatment in the morning, after cleansing and applying moisturizer, apply Clindamycin phosphate gel only on active acne lesions. This should be followed by sunscreen to help prevent hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks.

  • At night, apply a pea-sized amount of topical Adapalene (0.1%) gel to the entire face, under the cover of a moisturizer.

  • This helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and gradually improve post-acne marks.

Continue this treatment for at least one month, after which a noticeable reduction in acne should be seen. If acne persists, oral medications such as Isotretinoin may be considered. However, Isotretinoin requires a detailed medical history and prerequisite evaluation to avoid potential side effects.

Patience is essential, as post-acne marks take time to fade, especially in sensitive skin. Harsh scrubs and excessive exfoliation should be avoided, as they can irritate the skin and worsen pigmentation. Adequate hydration, strict adherence to prescribed PCOS treatment, and consistent skincare practices will contribute significantly to better skin outcomes over time.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Misha Saghir

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At April 11, 2026
Reviewed AtApril 11, 2026

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