How do I manage dry skin and acne marks on my face?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have dry skin on my forehead and nose. I also have acne and acne marks on my cheek area. I am using Derma Co Salicylic Acid face wash, Plum moisturizer, Aqualogica sunscreen, and Plum toner. I do not know where I am going wrong.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is very common to have acne along with areas of dryness, especially when using active ingredients regularly. From your routine, the dryness on your forehead and nose suggests that your skin barrier may be slightly irritated or over-exfoliated.

The Derma Co Salicinamide face wash contains Salicylic acid, which is helpful for acne but can be drying if used too frequently, particularly if used twice daily. If your Plum toner contains exfoliating acids or alcohol, it may further contribute to dryness and irritation. When the skin barrier becomes weak, you may notice tightness after washing, flaking around the nose, or even more small acne bumps appearing.

At this stage, the issue is likely not that you are doing something completely wrong. I would suggest simplifying your routine for a few weeks. Use a gentle cleanser in the morning instead of the Salicylic acid face wash, apply a light moisturizer, and continue using sunscreen regularly in an adequate quantity.

For daily skincare, I would strongly recommend switching to a very gentle cleanser for dry, normal, and sensitive skin, such as Derma Co 2 percent (Niacinamide cleanser), used only twice daily with lukewarm water.

At night, you can use the Salicylic acid face wash once daily or even on alternate days instead of twice daily. It would be better to pause the toner for two to three weeks to allow your skin barrier to recover. Apply moisturizer on slightly damp skin to lock in hydration.

For acne marks on the cheeks, focus on gentle pigment-correcting ingredients rather than increasing exfoliation. Aziderm cream, which contains Azelaic acid, can be used at night to gradually improve pigmentation while also helping with acne. Apply a pea-sized amount at bedtime daily and follow with a moisturizer to avoid irritation. This will help reduce pigmentation and lighten acne marks over time. Keep your routine simple and consistent, as acne improves more with steady care than with multiple products.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again for further queries.

Thank you.