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What treatments help clear pimples and spots on my face?

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

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 24-year-old male. I want to know how I can get rid of pimples and spots on my face.

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.

Acne can sometimes continue into adulthood, especially in men, because of increased oil production, blocked pores, bacteria, and hormonal factors. Since you have been experiencing pimples since the age of 15, this is likely persistent acne, which is quite common.

The best treatment in your case is a topical gel containing Benzoyl peroxide and Adapalene, which works by reducing acne-causing bacteria, clearing blocked pores, and preventing new pimples from forming. The retinoid in this gel will help clear the marks and pigmentation as well.

  • Apply a thin layer of a gel containing Benzoyl peroxide and Adapalene to the entire face, followed by a moisturiser once daily at night.

  • Use a face wash before applying the gel, as it should be applied on clean skin.

  • It is important to use it regularly, as improvement usually takes about four to eight weeks.

You may notice mild dryness or irritation in the beginning, which is normal.

  • Try to wash your face twice daily.

  • Avoid oily or heavy creams.

  • Avoid squeezing pimples because this can cause dark spots or scars.

  • Use oil-free or non-comedogenic skin care products and avoid heavy or greasy creams on the face.

  • If your skin becomes dry, you can use a light, non-oily moisturiser.

  • Maintain good hygiene by keeping pillowcases clean and avoiding touching your face frequently.

  • A balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular sleep, and reducing stress can also help improve overall skin health.

Acne treatment usually takes several weeks to show improvement, so it is important to be patient and consistent with the recommended treatment.

If the acne comes even after this treatment, then you need to shift to oral therapy for a few months, like oral antibiotics or retinoids, but under the supervision of a dermatologist, as it has indications and contraindications, and you need a full questionnaire to fill just to be safe before starting any such oral therapy. I would suggest you do the lifestyle changes and give the topical therapy a chance, and you may not need the oral therapy.

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 17, 2026
Reviewed At March 17, 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.

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Companion

Acne Treatment Companion

How it works

Acne can persist into adulthood due to factors like oil production, blocked pores, bacteria, and hormones. This companion helps you understand common treatments and prepare for a discussion with your doctor.

1

Acne
Causes

2

Topical
Options

3

Application
Tips

4

Skincare
Habits

5

Lifestyle
Health

6

Oral
Therapy

Important Considerations

You may experience mild dryness or irritation when starting topical treatments, which is normal. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

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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