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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #20945
45 days ago
71

pimple reducing cream - #20945

Shlok

I am frustrated with my skin and need some advice about pimple reducing cream. For the past few months, I started breaking out like crazy. I never dealt with acne as a teen, but now, at 28, it’s like my face has declared war on me. I tried a couple of over-the-counter pimple reducing creams, but honestly, I haven't seen any real results. The cream that I got last week made my skin peel a little but didn’t help with the actual pimples. Should I be looking for something with a specific ingredient in a pimple reducing cream? I was thinking about salicylic acid or perhaps benzoyl peroxide, but is that too strong? I've also heard tea tree oil might be good. My skin tends to get pretty oily sometimes, so I don’t know if the creams are just clogging my pores more. Sometimes I wonder if I need a prescription pimple reducing cream instead. Anyone had their life changed by a certain product? Any recommendations would be super helpful because I'm kinda desperate right now. Like, how long should I expect results from a good pimple reducing cream?

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Doctors' responses

When dealing with adult acne, choosing the right pimple-reducing cream can be a bit of trial and error, but focusing on key ingredients can make a significant difference. Products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are often recommended because they are effective for many people. Salicylic acid helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation, which can be particularly useful if your skin is oily. Benzoyl peroxide targets bacteria and helps to reduce the size and number of pimples, but it might be a bit harsh if your skin is sensitive. Either can cause dryness or peeling initially, so start with a lower concentration and gradually increase if you tolerate it well.

Tea tree oil is another natural alternative known for its antibacterial properties, but it can also be irritating, so use with caution. It’s crucial to follow with a good moisturizer to help balance your skin’s oil production, preventing further pore clogging. You might also want to look for products labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t clog pores. Giving a new product at least 4-6 weeks to work is smart, as acne treatments take time to show noticeable results. If these over-the-counter options aren’t helping, you may need a prescription-strength cream; topical retinoids or other medications such as clindamycin can be effective and your doctor can guide you here.

Lifestyle factors can also exacerbate acne, including diet, stress levels, and sleep patterns, so consider evaluating these areas as well. Keep in mind, Persistent or severe acne can signal an underlying health issue, particularly hormonal imbalance, and a visit to a dermatologist might be warranted if improvement is slow or absent. Don’t forget that while finding a magic product sounds appealing, often a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments keeps adult acne in check.

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