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How can acne and scarring be treated effectively?

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

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing pimple breakouts for about a year now I had no problems before, the pimples are on my cheeks and my forehead occasionally around my chin and jaw. They are very large and have caused a considerable amount of scarring all over my face. I have tried using cleansers for oily skin and frequently use a face scrub and activated charcoal mask.

Do you have any ideas on how to prevent pimples and repair my scarring?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Rabia Anjum

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Please follow the prescribed treatment plan as outlined below:

1. Azithromycin: Take one tablet twice daily (BD) for the first three days, then switch to one tablet on alternate days for the next three weeks.

2. Clindamycin lotion: Apply over affected areas twice daily (BD).

3. Tretinoin gel: Apply a small amount of the gel on your entire face at night, along with a cold cream to minimize irritation.

4. Scar care gel: Apply twice daily (BD) to the scars.

Additionally, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 60 throughout the day. Apply it evenly and frequently from morning until evening to protect your skin.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for responding,

It has been one month since I started the treatment, and I have noticed significant improvement. Over the past week, my acne has cleared up, though it was still present and spreading during the first three weeks of treatment. The acne would occasionally flare up overnight. I found that the clindamycin lotion and sunscreen were the most helpful in managing my condition. However, the scar gel seemed to exacerbate the breakouts. While I still have some acne scars, they are now less noticeable than before.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Rabia Anjum

Hello,

Welcome back to iCliniq.com.

The complete acne treatment course typically lasts between three to six months, depending on how your skin responds. Please continue with the oral azithromycin and the rest of the prescribed treatments. If you feel that the scar gel is contributing to more breakouts, you can discontinue its use, but please continue the other treatments as directed.

Here’s the updated treatment plan:

1. Oral azithromycin: Take one tablet twice daily (BD) on alternate days.

2. Topical clindamycin lotion: Apply over affected areas (pimples) twice daily (BD).

3. Topical tretinoin gel: Apply at night, along with cold cream to minimize irritation.

4. Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen regularly during the day.

5. Drink plenty of clean water to stay hydrated.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Rabia Anjum

Medically reviewed byDr. Nithila. A

Published At October 4, 2019
Reviewed AtJanuary 29, 2025

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