cream for acne spots - #14203
I am really struggling with these awful acne spots that just won't go away! It's been such a long journey since my teenage years with breakouts, and now that I'm in my 30s, it's like they’ve left these stubborn marks all over my face. I've tried so many products, including different creams for acne spots, but nothing seems to work. I even saw a dermatologist last month who suggested trying a specific cream for acne spots that had some retinol in it, but my skin felt so irritated afterward. Like, how do I find a cream for acne spots that doesn’t just leave my skin all red and peeling? I just want to have clear skin for once, you know? My friend said tea tree oil helped her, but, like, what if that doesn’t work for me?? Should I be looking for a specific ingredient in a cream for acne spots, or is it more about the brand? Also, any thoughts on how long it usually takes for a cream for acne spots to show results? I’m feeling kinda hopeless here, and I need some advice before I keep wasting money on stuff that doesn't help!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Finding the right cream for acne spots can be frustrating, especially if you’ve dealt with this for so long. It’s important to remember that not everyone’s skin reacts the same way to certain products or ingredients, so it might take some trial and error to get it right. Since you’re experiencing irritation with products containing retinol, you might want to look for creams with ingredients known to be effective on acne spots but are less likely to cause irritation. Consider trying products with azelaic acid or niacinamide, which can be gentler yet effective in treating hyperpigmentation and active acne. Also, a product with alpha arbutin could help lighten acne spots over time without causing much irritation. When starting any new product, it’s best to introduce it slowly into your routine, like every couple of days, to let your skin acclimate. In terms of results, patience is key; it might take a few weeks to notice improvements, sometimes longer for stubborn spots. As for natural remedies like tea tree oil, while they can be helpful for some, they might not be as effective or too harsh for others. If you’re considering tea tree oil, it’s crucial to dilute it before applying, as using it straight can cause irritation or even burns on sensitive skin. When shopping for creams, don’t get caught up in brands alone—focus on the active ingredients that have evidence supporting their effectiveness. Also, non-comedogenic products might be worth keeping an eye out for, as they’re less likely to block pores. Keep moisturizing daily and apply SPF to prevent new spots from forming due to sun exposure. If over-the-counter options aren’t giving the desired results, it may be worthwhile to touch base with your dermatologist again for possibly stronger prescription options. It’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed, but getting a tailored routine can really make a difference over time.
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.