How to reduce acne and acne spots - #11383

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.

Hormonal changes (teenage/PCOS in some cases) excess oil, clogged pores.

Summer heat + sweat more back acne (“bacne”).

Using just a facewash (Dot & Key) not enough; acne needs treatment ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene, etc.

Touching/squeezing pimples makes spots last longer

Morning ☀️

Face wash Salicylic acid based (like Cipla Saslic DS foaming facewash ).

Oil-free moisturizer (like Cetaphil DAM ).

Sunscreen (non-comedogenic, matte gel type – e.g., Re’equil Oxybenzone & OMC free sunscreen).

Evening Cleanser (same as morning).

Treatment gel/cream (ONLY pea-sized):

Adapalene 0.1% gel (Deriva-AC) OR Clindamycin + Niacinamide gel (Clindac-A +).

Start with 3 nights/week, increase slowly.

Moisturizer again (to prevent dryness)

Lifestyle

Don’t pick/squeeze pimples → that’s why spots are lasting 2+ months.

Shower after sweating (sports/gym/summer).

Diet: Reduce dairy (milk, paneer, cheese), oily food, junk. Add fruits, vegetables, nuts, water.

Sleep 7–8 hrs, manage stress (yes, even at 16, stress worsens acne).

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

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.