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how to reduce face acne
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #13554
13 days ago
50

how to reduce face acne - #13554

Hriday

I am really struggling with face acne and it's been driving me nuts! Like, I kinda thought I would outgrow it, right? But here I am at 25, and my face still breaks out like I'm a teenager or something. I’ve tried a bunch of products – those over-the-counter creams, even a fancy serum that supposedly fixes everything, but nothing seems to really help. I eat pretty well, try to drink enough water, and don't know if stress plays a part, but I feel like it does sometimes. My friend said to look into some med stuff like salicylic acid or maybe even go see a dermatologist, but I’m just nervous about what they might tell me. My cousin had bad face acne and had to take some strong medication which made her kind of sick. I don’t want that!!! Can anyone tell me how to reduce face acne without going through all that? Like, are there natural remedies that you’ve seen work? Or any specific products that actually do something? I just want to get rid of the redness and those annoying bumps already! Is there some easy way to do this or am I stuck with this for life? Appreciate any tips, really.

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Doctors’ responses

Dealing with face acne at 25 can definitely be frustrating, and it’s not uncommon for adults to experience persistent acne. First, it’s useful to establish a good basic skincare routine. This might include a gentle facial cleanser, followed by a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Without overwashing your face—twice a day is typically sufficient—you can avoid irritating the skin further. Over-the-counter products with active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be effective. These help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. However, they can be drying, so it might be important to start with a low concentration. Niacinamide is another useful ingredient as it can reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.

Stress might contribute to acne flare-ups by increasing certain hormone levels, so managing stress through exercise, meditation, or hobbies could be beneficial. Although diet’s role isn’t fully clear, some people find that reducing their intake of high glycemic index foods (like sugary snacks) can help. As for natural remedies, tea tree oil has antibacterial properties, but it should be diluted because it can cause irritation if applied directly. Aloe vera is another option since it can soothe irritated skin.

If you find these methods aren’t bringing improvement, or if you’re worried about scarring, it might be wise to consult a dermatologist. They can personalize your treatment plan potentially involving topical or oral medications; it’s common to be nervous about stronger medications like isotretinoin, but a professional can guide you through the pros and cons considering your specific situation. Remember that seeking expert advice doesn’t oblige you to start strong treatments immediately—often, dermatologists begin with milder options. It’s worth noting if you notice any severe symptoms like painful cysts or acne alongside other signs like hair loss or sudden weight changes, a medical evaluation is important to rule out underlying conditions.

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