medicine for pimples on face - #13186
I am dealing with these really stubborn pimples on my face, and it's driving me insane. Like, just last week, I noticed a few small bumps forming on my forehead and chin, and I thought maybe it was just a one-time thing. But no! They just keep coming, and now I have this red, irritated skin that feels super sensitive. I never had this much trouble before, but now I'm worrying it's something serious. I tried a bunch of over-the-counter stuff that claims to be an effective medicine for pimples on face, like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, but honestly, they don't seem to be doing much. Then my friend told me that using natural remedies might work better than any medicine for pimples on face, like tea tree oil, but I’m not sure if I should mix that with other products? What’s even more frustrating is that I never dealt with this as a teen—why now? I mean, what’s even the best type of medicine for pimples on face? Should I go see a doctor, or is it really just trial and error with products? Any advice or recommendations would be super helpful. I feel kinda lost here!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Focusing on adult-onset acne, which you’re experiencing, let’s dive into treating those stubborn pimples. It’s key to address that many factors could be contributing, like hormonal changes, stress, diet, or even certain products applied to the skin. Given you’ve tried over-the-counter options like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide without much success, it might be worth exploring a few other approaches before you seek help from a dermatologist. When dealing with stubborn acne, persistence and consistency are crucial. Start by ensuring that your daily skincare routine includes a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil without overly stripping the skin, which could cause further irritation. Following the cleanser, using a non-comedogenic moisturizer can help maintain skin hydration, balancing oil production and reducing breakouts. Tea tree oil is indeed a popular natural option due to its antibacterial properties, but it should be used with caution. Mix a few drops into a carrier oil, like jojoba or almond, before applying it to the skin. Test it on a small area first, as it can be irritating for some people. Consider cutting back on the current products if mixing them with tea tree oil—even if it’s natural doesn’t mean it can’t cause adverse reactions when combined with others. Keep in mind that if these changes do not improve the situation within a few weeks, or if the acne becomes more severe, it’s prudent to see a doctor or dermatologist. They might suggest treatments such as topical or oral prescription medications, which can be more effective for persistent acne. In the meantime, being mindful of lifestyle factors—ensuring a healthy diet, regular sleep, and managing stress levels—can also contribute positively to your skin’s condition. Always approach changing routines one step at a time, monitoring the skin’s reaction to each alteration.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.