Hello dear See they seems acne or dark spots due to stress Hormonal alterations Please do not worry and follow instructions below. Usually the appearance ranges from red inflammatory to comedonal white heads. These may or may not be associated with periods. 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
Your symptoms (persistent whiteheads on chin + oily/sweaty T-zone + occasional painful lesions) fit mild-to-moderate **Acne Vulgaris, especially common in the chin/nose area due to oil and sweat.
Start a simple routine: use a gentle cleanser twice daily, add a salicylic acid (1–2%) face wash or gel for whiteheads, and apply a light non-comedogenic moisturizer; at night, a retinoid (like adapalene) helps clear clogged pores gradually—don’t pick or squeeze.
For sunscreen, choose a gel-based, oil-free, “non-comedogenic” SPF 30–50 (matte finish suits sweaty skin better than heavy creams), and if acne is painful or not improving in 6–8 weeks, consult a Dermatologist for stronger treatment.
Your symptoms sound most consistent with comedonal acne (whiteheads) along with oily/sweaty skin, especially around the chin and nose area. The chin is very commonly affected due to hormones, friction, sweat, and clogged pores, and when the whiteheads become inflamed or painful like a wound, it may mean some are turning into small acne cysts or infected pimples. Excess sweating on the nose can also worsen pore blockage and irritation. A simple skincare routine usually helps: use a gentle salicylic acid or niacinamide-based cleanser, avoid scrubbing harshly, wash sweat off after heat/exercise, and use only non-comedogenic (oil-free) moisturizers and sunscreen. If Vilvah sunscreen feels sweaty or heavy, you may do better with a gel-based matte sunscreen made for oily or acne-prone skin. For treatment, a mild adapalene gel or benzoyl peroxide at night can help clear whiteheads gradually, but start slowly because irritation can occur. Avoid squeezing or picking at the lesions.
Hello, I understand your concern. Your symptoms suggest comedonal acne (whiteheads) with some inflammatory lesions, especially on the chin. This is very common and usually linked to oil, sweat, and clogged pores. Why this is happening- Excess oil + sweat (you mentioned sweating a lot). Blocked pores as suggested by whiteheads. Chin area is often affected due to hormonal influence. Painful ones = mild inflammation starting. What you should do-
1. Face care routine: - Morning: Use a gentle face wash (2 times daily). Apply light, oil-free moisturizer. Use a gel-based sunscreen (very important) - Night: Wash face. Apply Adapalene gel – thin layer on chin/nose. Start alternate nights for 1 week, then daily if tolerated.
2. For active/painful pimples- You can use Benzoyl peroxide gel (2.5%) as spot treatment.
3. Important habits- Do NOT squeeze or pick (causes pain, marks). Wash face after sweating. Avoid heavy creams/oily products. Change pillow cover regularly. Sunscreen is important in your case, Since you sweat a lot. Use gel-based / matte sunscreen (non-comedogenic). Look for labels: “oil-free”, “non-acnegenic”. This will feel lighter than what you are currently using.
How long for improvement? Whiteheads improve in 3–4 weeks. Full control may take 6–8 weeks When to see a doctor- If painful acne keeps increasing, If no improvement after 6–8 weeks or If marks/scars start appearing. This is very common and treatable. With the right routine (especially adapalene), you should see clear improvement.
Feel free to reach out again
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine
Hello It sounds like you’re dealing with quite a bit of discomfort from those whiteheads, especially on your chin. They can be really annoying, especially when they start to hurt.
For your skin type and the sweating issue, here are a few tips:
1. Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Look for products that are oil-free and designed for acne-prone skin.
2. Exfoliation: Consider using a gentle exfoliating product with salicylic acid or glycolic acid a few times a week. This can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
3. Sunscreen: Since you mentioned sweating, look for a gel-based or water-based sunscreen that is non-comedogenic. Brands like Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, or even some Ayurvedic options can be good. Make sure it’s labeled as “oil-free” or “for oily skin.”
4. Moisturizer: Even if your skin is oily, don’t skip moisturizer. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without adding extra oil.
5. Avoid Picking: Try not to pick at the whiteheads, as this can lead to scarring or infection.
6. Consult a Dermatologist: If the problem persists or worsens, it might be a good idea to see a dermatologist. They can provide treatments like topical retinoids or other medications that can help.
Thank you
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your concerns so clearly. Here’s a crisp, point‑wise plan to tackle those painful whiteheads on your chin and nose, along with the sweating and sunscreen issue.
· Stop the “wound‑like” pain first Avoid squeezing or picking – this turns simple whiteheads into inflamed, infected bumps that feel like a wound. Touching introduces bacteria and makes pain worse.
· Sunscreen switch is key Vilvah may be “best” but if it feels heavy or makes you sweat more, it can clog pores on an already sweaty T‑zone. Choose a lightweight, non‑comedogenic, gel or matte‑finish sunscreen (look for “oil‑free”, “water‑based”, or ingredients like silica/zinc oxide). Blot sweat with a clean tissue – never wipe.
· Add an active to unclog pores Evening: Use a 2% salicylic acid cleanser or serum (start 2‑3 times a week) to dissolve dead skin and oil inside the whiteheads. On painful spots only, apply a thin layer of 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel at night – it kills bacteria and reduces inflammation quickly.
· Build a gentle, sweat‑proof routine Morning: Mild foaming cleanser → oil‑free moisturizer → your new lightweight sunscreen. Evening: Cleanser → salicylic acid product → oil‑free moisturizer → BP spot treatment if needed. Post‑sweat: After heavy sweating, rinse with water, pat dry, reapply sunscreen.
· Manage excessive nose/chin sweating Carry oil‑blotting papers and gently dab (never rub). If sweating is very frequent, a dermatologist can prescribe topical glycopyrrolate wipes to temporarily reduce sweat in those areas – which can directly lower whitehead formation.
· Know when to see a dermatologist If the bumps become hot, increasingly tender, or you get a fever, it may indicate an infection needing antibiotics. For deep, persistent whiteheads, in‑office extraction and a prescription retinoid (like adapalene) can be game‑changers.
Consistency wins – give changes 6–8 weeks. You’ve done the right thing by reaching out early.
Take care, Dr. Nikhil Chauhan
Severe whiteheads, especially those that are painful, are essentially a form of acne caused by clogged pores. These can result from excess oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacterial buildup. To address this, start by incorporating a gentle cleanser containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide into your daily routine. These ingredients help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. You should cleanse your face twice daily – once in the morning and once at night – but avoid over-cleansing, as this can strip your skin of natural oils and potentially worsen the condition. Moisturizing is also key, and it’s important to choose a non-comedogenic product that doesn’t contribute to clogging your pores. For sunscreen, go for one that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic. Look for labels mentioning “mineral” or “physical” blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They are often less irritating and can work well for acne-prone skin. Make sure to apply sunscreen generously every morning, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin. Since you’re experiencing sweating, it might be worthwhile to opt for a mattifying formula that can help control excess oil. If the situation doesn’t improve with these measures, or if it consistently hurts like a wound, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger topical treatments or consider oral medications if necessary. In some cases, painful acne could indicate cystic acne, which requires professional intervention. Additionally, maintaining a clean face mask sponge is essential if you wear makeup, as it’s critical to avoid bacteria buildup on the applicator. Keep an eye on any potential dietary triggers as well, like high sugar or dairy intake, which can sometimes exacerbate acne for some individuals. Make sure to avoid picking or squeezing the whiteheads as this can lead to scarring or infection. If you notice redness spreading beyond the chin or severe swelling, seek medical advice promptly to rule out any infection needing treatment.
