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How to treat persistent acne in a 15-year-old with sensitive skin?
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #29548
95 days ago
177

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

Client_c1cc86

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

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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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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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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