I have some mild acne and huge pores on cheeks. What can be done?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been using Isopropyl alcohol as a face wash diluted with water for the last eight years and am exploring more healthy and effective skincare routines. I have mild acne and huge pores on my cheeks. Currently, I have purchased a variety of products and would like to receive your input as to whether or not this is a terrible routine or one that will work to create healthy skin. Every day I take Beta-Carotene, Lycopene, and Astaxanthin supplements. Morning, I use moisturizer, then apply Niacinamide lotion, moisturize, then apply Azelaic Acid cream. At night, I moisturize, then apply retinol cream.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Your skin routine is good; you can go on with it. Please choose a moisturizer that is not clogging and is non-comedogenic; lotion form is better than cream since you have mild acne. Niacinamide and Azelaic acid are helpful for acne; they are mild, but a higher concentration of Azelaic acid can cause a little irritation to the skin. If Azelaic acid is 4% or less, it should be fine to use every day.

Retinol works well for enlarged pores and also for acne. It helps to exfoliate the skin. Start retinol slow, use a thin layer on the face on alternate nights initially, then increase the frequency of application to nightly, Retinol is anti-aging too; it helps with wrinkles and pigmentation. Beta-carotene, Lycopene are antioxidants, they are considered systemic or oral sunscreens.

The only addition to your routine is to use a moisturizer with sunscreen that is non-comedogenic; use this in the morning instead of your regular moisturizer. Sunscreen is a must in any skin routine; UV (ultraviolet) rays from sunlight are the reason for early wrinkles, pigmentation of skin, as well as skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanomas). Keep your body hydrated with at least two to three liters of water per day, and consume fruits and vegetables that are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, like carrots, papaya, watermelon, muskmelon, and pomegranate.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.