I have acne and dark spots. What skincare routine to follow?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand how frustrating it can be to have active acne on the forehead, jawline, and cheeks, especially when it keeps spreading and leaves dark marks behind.

Based on your history, the attached picture (the attachments were removed to protect the patient's identity), and the areas involved, this appears to be inflammatory acne.

This is common at your age and is often influenced by hormonal changes, excess oil production, clogged pores, and sometimes stress or improper skincare.

The black spots you are noticing are known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which develops after acne heals and can darken further if not treated properly.

Your current routine with a Salicylic acid–based face wash and a Niacinamide serum is a good start, as both help control oil and calm the skin. However, they are usually not sufficient on their own to control active acne.

Use your Salicylic acid cleanser on alternate days, and on the remaining days, use a gentle cleanser enriched with provitamin B5 and vitamin E. Excessive use of acids can strip away the skin’s natural sebum and cause rebound acne, even in oily or brown skin.

To prevent further breakouts and stop the acne from spreading, targeted acne treatment is needed along with strict sun protection.

Daily use of a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen is very important, as sun exposure can make dark spots more prominent and slow the healing process.

To manage the acne, apply Persol Plus gel (a combination of Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide) in a pea-sized amount at bedtime, under a layer of moisturizer, daily. This will help reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne, such as pustules, which are clearly present on your forehead.

It is equally important to follow proper skincare habits.

1. Avoid touching or picking at pimples, as this worsens inflammation and increases the risk of dark marks and scarring.

2. Keep your hair clean and away from your forehead.

3. Avoid heavy creams or oils on the face.

4. Wash pillowcases regularly.

5. Try to limit junk food, sugary drinks, and excessive dairy intake.

Acne takes time to improve, usually around four to six weeks with consistent care, so patience and regular follow-up are key.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.