use topical isotretnoin and eat low glycemic foods
Hi Aarushi I understand your concern Let’s go step by step:
Why acne + dark spots happen • Hormonal changes (very common at your age, 16). • Oily skin + clogged pores → acne. • Inflammation → leaves behind dark marks that take weeks–months to fade. • Heat and sweat (summers) → worsen back acne.
What you can do
1. Daily skincare routine • Gentle facewash (your current Dot & Key is okay, but don’t over-wash — max 2 times/day). • Oil-free moisturizer (gel or lotion-based). Hydration is important even for oily skin. • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning — prevents dark spots from getting darker.
2. Acne treatment options (safe for teens)
(start one at a time, patch test first) • For face acne: • Adapalene gel (0.1%) at night (tiny amount on pimples & spots, not whole face at first). • Benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel on active pimples (helps dry them, prevents new breakouts). • For back acne: • Use an antibacterial body wash with salicylic acid (2%) or benzoyl peroxide (keep it on skin for 2–3 minutes before washing off). • Wear cotton clothes, avoid tight sweaty outfits.
3. Lifestyle tips • Wash face after sweating / sports. • Avoid touching or squeezing pimples (causes spots & scars). • Balanced diet: cut down oily/junk food, sugary drinks, excess dairy. • Drink enough water + sleep 7–8 hrs.
4. For acne spots (marks after pimples heal) • Niacinamide serum (2–5%) in the morning can help fade marks faster. • Patience → spots usually take 6–8 weeks to lighten.
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When to see a dermatologist 👩⚕️ • If acne is severe (cystic, painful, spreading fast). • If scars (holes, pits) are forming. • If OTC gels/serums don’t work after 2–3 months.
Dermatologists may give you oral medicines (antibiotics, retinoids, hormonal therapy if needed) to control acne more strongly.
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✅ Start simple: Morning → gentle face wash + sunscreen Evening → gentle face wash + adapalene OR benzoyl peroxide (alternate nights) + light
STAY HEALTHY AND HYDRATED DEAR
Hello dear See as per clinical history It seems either the advent of adolescence it is causing acne or hormonal fluctuations can be the reason Iam suggesting some medications for improvement Kindly follow them for 1 -2 months . Topical Treatments -Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5–5%) Kills bacteria and is anti-inflammatory in action. Salicylic Acid, Adapalene 0.1% can also be given as additive medications. 2.Clindamycin 1% Clindac A ,Tretinoin ( if already not taken). 3.Azelaic Acid 10 percent for two weeks. 4. Oral Medications -tablet Doxycycline 1 month twice a day or Tab Minocycline ( take precautions to avoid in pregnancy) 5.Oral contraceptives - Diane-35 with addition of Spironolactone .on recommendation only by gynacolologist
Supportive medications Niacinamide serum –antiinflammatory in nature In addition use aloevera - tulsi solution to apply topically for 1 month
In case of no improvement in 1 month, kindly consult dermatologist in person for better clarification Regards
you have teenage acne with marks. You need a consistent routine with salicylic acid wash, adapalene + benzoyl peroxide at night, sunscreen in the day, and azelaic acid for marks. Back acne needs special body wash + hygiene. With discipline, your acne and marks will improve in 8–12 weeks.
Persistent acne on the face and back with long-lasting spots often needs medical treatment beyond facewash, especially if it’s been 2 years and is worsening. Avoid squeezing pimples, use oil-free products, and keep the skin clean, but topical or oral medicines may be required. Please consult a Dermatologist who can prescribe treatments like retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal evaluation if needed for lasting improvement.
Start by examining your skincare routine and products. Using a gentle cleanser like the one from Dot & Key is fine, but if it’s not working, you may consider switching to a product containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can help reduce acne by unclogging pores and killing bacteria causing the acne. Additionally, incorporate a moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin to prevent the skin from over-drying, which can stimulate more oil production and worsen acne. You mentioned acne worsening during summers, so ensure you are using a non-comedogenic sunscreen daily to protect your skin without clogging pores. For persistent acne, over-the-counter treatments might not be sufficient. Consider visiting a dermatologist for prescription options like topical retinoids or antibiotics, which are effective but require professional guidance due to potential side effects. Acne spots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can be stubborn, but treatments like azelaic acid, niacinamide, or chemical peels conducted by professionals can help hasten pigmentation fading. In addition, assess lifestyle factors: Aim to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while reducing intake of high-glycemic foods and dairy, which might exacerbate acne for some individuals. Also, ensure you get adequate sleep and manage stress, both of which significantly affect skin health. Furthermore, practice good hygiene by changing pillowcases regularly and avoiding picking or squeezing pimples to prevent scars. If your acne is indeed worsening significantly or causing severe distress, a thorough assessment by a healthcare provider is advisable as hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues might need to be addressed. Avoid delaying medical consultations when advised as timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and enhance outcomes. Lastly, if you’re currently under any medication, review them with your doctor for potential side effects related to acne. Keep in regular contact with healthcare professionals for ongoing support and tailored treatment plans.
