Why am I having cystic acne with white heads on my shoulders, chest and back?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am having very severe cystic acne mixed with white heads on my shoulders, chest, and back. I have been prescribed Doxycycline, 100 mg twice daily, this is my third week. My acne got worse for the first week and then better. Much less swollen. But it is still very painful, bleeding and oozing through all my clothes. My doctor advised against non-comedogenic lotion, but I find it is making my skin dry, and that is making the acne split open as well as the scabs. Does it take very long to heal? I believe the acne started because I have been using anabolic steroids, but I believe it got infected (as does my doctor) and that is why she prescribed Doxycycline. My question is, what would you do for someone who developed severe cystic acne due to anabolic steroid use? Stopping steroid usage also is not an option at this point as the body and hormones could not recover on their own. Please tell me how this would affect your treatment and how health insurance would be affected.

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have gone through your case. If your anabolic steroid is the causative agent, then you should really stop it in order to keep it in control. Please remember all acne treatment makes skin dry so do not worry about dryness. If it is troublesome then apply lotion on your palms and gently tap on your face. In my opinion, your treatment is optimum. Sometimes it may take three months for recovery. Or take an opinion about Retinoids intake. They should be given under the strict supervision of your doctor.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.