how to get rid of acnes - #13642
I am really frustrated because I’ve been dealing with acnes for what feels like forever, especially the ones on my cheeks — they just won’t go away! A couple months ago, I started breaking out way more than usual, and I thought it was just stress from work. But even after trying a bunch of over-the-counter creams and all these DIY face masks from YouTube, I haven’t seen much improvement. My skin gets super oily, and then I wake up with new acnes almost every day, ugh! I even cut out dairy and sugar, hoping it would help, but here I am still battling this problem. I went to see a dermatologist, and they prescribed me some topical treatment, but honestly, it’s still not helping like I thought it would. Does anyone have tips on how to get rid of acnes that actually worked for them? I've heard about different diets, routines, or treatments, but I'm confused about what to try next. Like, do I need to switch my whole skincare routine or something? How to get rid of acnes — I just need to know what works! Any advice would be soooo appreciated, I'm just really tired of feeling self-conscious about my skin.
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Acne can indeed be persistent and frustrating, especially when it feels like you’ve tried everything. It sounds like you’re dealing with inflammatory acne on your cheeks, which is keeping you on your toes. Since you’ve already seen a dermatologist and have a topical treatment, it might be worthwhile to review your progress with them, as sometimes these treatments need time to show significant effects. First, consider adjusting or simplifying your skincare routine if it’s quite complicated — sometimes less is more. Focus on a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer suitable for oily skin, and keep using the prescribed topical treatment. It’s crucial to give products a fair chance — about 6–8 weeks — as impatiently switching products can sometimes worsen acne. Since you’ve cut out dairy and sugar, which is a good start, also think about including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, as they may reduce inflammation. Drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet supports overall skin health. As for over-the-counter options, products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid might help, as they target acne from different angles. Avoiding over-cleansing or harsh exfoliation is key, as they can irritate the skin and increase oil production. Stress management, adequate sleep, and avoiding pore-clogging cosmetics can also play significant roles in reducing acne. If there’s still little to no improvement, it might be time to explore other prescription options like oral antibiotics or hormonal treatments with your dermatologist. Remember, consistent follow-up with your healthcare provider can guide further in finding what’s most suitable for your skin type.
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.