How do I manage pimples and uneven skin tone?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A one-year history of large pimples on the cheeks (especially more on one side), oily skin, dark spots, and uneven skin tone most commonly suggests adult female acne with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The dark spots are not permanent scars in most cases; they are pigment marks left after inflammation and can gradually fade once breakouts are controlled.

When acne is mainly on one cheek (especially the right side), common triggers include frequent phone contact, resting the face on the hand, poor pillowcase hygiene, hair oils touching the skin, or cosmetic products that clog pores. Oily skin further contributes to blocked pores and deeper, painful pimples. Hormonal influence can also play a role at 37 years of age, even if menstrual cycles are regular.

The priority is to control active acne first, then treat pigmentation. In the morning, use a gentle non-foaming cleanser, followed by a sensitive moisturizer. In the evening, use a pea-sized amount of a combination gel containing Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide (Duac gel). Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire face, avoiding the under-eye area and the sides of the nose, followed by a gentle moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness. This will help manage both blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones), as well as new breakouts. Use this consistently for at least four to six weeks to see effective results. Once acne is controlled, you can move on to the management of pigmentation.

For dark spots and uneven skin tone, Azelaic acid (10 to 20 percent) or Niacinamide (Nicotinamide) can help once acne is under control. However, avoid starting multiple active ingredients at once. Improvement usually takes eight to 12 weeks of consistent treatment.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again if you have further queries.

Thank you.