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Which skin products can help manage my acne and dark spots?

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

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My skin type is dry to combination. I did not have any acne problems before. However, I got many clogged comedones two months ago, and now they have turned into acne. I have dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Currently, I am using a Salicylic acid daily gentle cleanser, a Snail mucin cream, and a sunscreen with SPF 50 plus and PA four plus. What type of product should I use?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Misha Saghir

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Considering your combination skin, it is important to focus on gentle products that help unclog pores without irritating, while also addressing pigmentation. I will guide you step by step on how to treat your pigmentation and acne.

  • A Salicylic acid cleanser is good, but it can cause over-drying of the skin and more acne if used daily. Try switching to a non-salicylic acid cleanser or a gentle foaming cleanser suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Incorporate a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain hydration. Your Snail mucin cream is suitable for soothing and repairing the skin barrier, so you can continue using it or switch to a sensitive skin barrier-repair moisturizer.
  • For acne, use Clindamycin 1 % gel on the affected area in the afternoon or evening.
  • For pigmentation, use Azelaic acid 20 percent cream at bedtime with a moisturizer afterwards to avoid dryness, on alternate nights.

Use sunscreen with SPF 50 (sun protection factor) in the morning. To guide you further, I would request that you share a picture of the affected area. Meanwhile, continue this regimen for four weeks, and you will start noticing the difference.

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

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 3, 2026
Reviewed At March 5, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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