How to treat persistent acne in a 15-year-old with sensitive skin?

Question #29548

45 days ago

101

How to treat persistent acne in a 15-year-old with sensitive skin? - #29548

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Hello Doctor, I am 15 years old and have acne on my face. Some old pimples are healing, but new pimples keep coming again and again. I have acne on my forehead, temples, and cheeks. Some are small while some are red and painful. My skin is sensitive and gets irritated easily. Currently, I am using a gentle facewash, light moisturizer, and benzoyl peroxide gel. Still, new pimples are not stopping. Please suggest a safe treatment for my age to stop new pimples and avoid irritation. Thank you.

How long have you been experiencing acne?:

- 1-3 months

How would you describe the severity of your acne?:

- Moderate — frequent pimples

Have you noticed any specific triggers for your acne?:

- No clear triggers

How often do you wash your face?:

- Twice a day

Have you tried any other treatments or products for your acne?:

- Over-the-counter treatments

Do you have any other skin issues, like dryness or eczema?:

- Yes, I have oily skin

How is your overall diet and hydration?:

- Occasional junk food, but drink water

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

45 days ago

Hello dear
Please do not worry and follow instructions below.
Usually the appearance ranges from red inflammatory to comedonal white heads.
These may be related with physiological variation or hormonal alterations
Medications:
1. Topical Treatments -Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5–5%)	twice a day  for week
Salicylic Acid, Adapalene 0.1% can also be given as additive medications.
2.Clindamycin 1%	Clindac A	,Tretinoin	( if already not taken).
3.Azelaic Acid	10 percent for two weeks.
4. Oral Medications -tablet Doxycycline 1 month twice a day  for max 5 days
or Tab Minocycline	 ( take precautions to avoid in pregnancy)
5.Oral contraceptives - Diane-35 with addition of Spironolactone	 on recommendation only by gynacologist in person only
Supportive medications
Niacinamide serum –antiinflammatory in nature twice daily for 1 week
In addition use aloevera - tulsi solution to apply topically for 1 month
In case of no improvement in 1 month, kindly consult dermatologist in person for better clarification
Regards

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Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

45 days ago

Hello,
Skincare for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin
1. Cleanser
Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA 2% Cleanser
2. Moisturizer
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel Cream
Ayouthveda Oil Control Mattifying Moisturizer
3. Toner (Optional)
Modern toners can hydrate and refine the skin barrier:
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray or Murad Clarifying Toner
4. Sun Protection
Non-comedogenic formula in the morning
La shield is good option.
🛑For Acne
Adapalene gel (0.1% at night, very thin layer) OR benzoyl peroxide gel (2.5–5%).
Use only on acne spots
Do NOT pick/squeeze pimples – this worsens pigmentation.
#For Pigmentation/Marks
Niacinamide 5% serum (morning or night, if skin is not irritated).
Azelaic acid acid 10–15% cream/gel at night (safe for marks and acne both).
Consistency is key — pigmentation takes 2–3 months to lighten.
Avoid excess dairy, junk, sugary foods.
Home remedies:
Aloe vera gel pack
Drink plenty of water
USE SUNSCREEN ALWAYS
THANK YOU

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

43 days ago

For a 15-year-old with persistent acne and sensitive skin, it’s important to keep the treatment gentle yet effective. Since you’re already using a gentle facewash and benzoyl peroxide gel, there are a few more steps you might consider. First, ensure that your benzoyl peroxide gel is not too high a concentration; 2.5% to 5% is often sufficient and less irritating for sensitive skin. If the irritation persists, you might try using it every other day rather than daily. Next, incorporating a topical retinoid can be beneficial, as it helps to prevent new acne from forming by promoting skin turnover. Adapalene is a common over-the-counter option that is generally well-tolerated. Apply this at night and start slow, perhaps once or twice a week, then increase as your skin adjusts. Ensuring your moisturizer is non-comedogenic and free from alcohols or fragrances will also help reduce irritation. You might also find that using a light, non-comedogenic sunscreen daily can prevent further irritation from sun exposure. Be cautious with any exfoliating products; physical scrubs can be too harsh, so a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid might be a better alternative, but consult a doctor if you consider this route. If acne remains severe or is not improving within a couple of months, it might be time to see a dermatologist. They might suggest oral medications like antibiotics or hormonal therapies, if appropriate, but this would require a more personalized approach and thorough discussion. Also, try to maintain a balanced diet, manage stress, and avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can worsen acne and increase chances of scarring. Always perform a patch test when trying new products, and if irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately.

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