I don't know how to improve acne and can't identify the cause. (Long text)
Hello, doctor.
I have been experiencing acne since the first year of junior high school, and it continues to persist even now that I am in my first year of college.
I cannot identify the cause, so I would like to explain my situation and seek your advice.
From the first to the third year of junior high, my acne primarily appeared on my forehead, with very few breakouts on my cheeks and nose.
I experienced both closed comedones and common acne, with breakouts occurring in waves; it seemed like every inch of my forehead had been affected.
I even had painful large pimples that resembled mosquito bites, which were swollen but did not have a visible head, and when squeezed, only clear fluid would come out.
At that time, I suspected that my bangs might have worsened the acne.
My daily routine and diet were normal, as I ate my mother's light and healthy home-cooked meals.
However, my menstrual cycle was irregular, occurring only three to four times a year without a consistent pattern.
I consulted a gynecologist who said this was normal and that I just needed to wait for it to regulate itself.
From high school to college, my acne shifted to primarily appearing on my cheeks, with the same pattern of breakouts: one batch would clear up, and then a few days later, another batch would emerge, creating a landscape of acne.
Although I still had bangs during this time, I experienced very few breakouts on my forehead, with only occasional closed comedones.
My routine and diet remained normal, but due to a lack of exercise and academic stress, I gained ten kilograms over three years, with my BMI increasing from 18.0 to 20.7 (I have heard that weight gain can lead to more acne, but I am unsure if this is correct).
My menstrual irregularity persisted, and I began treatment in my senior year of high school, taking Diane for a few months, but it did not improve my acne.
The doctor later diagnosed me with a natural deficiency in progesterone, stating that I did not have a disease, so I take medication or receive injections every three months to help regulate my menstrual flow and prevent tumors.
After visiting the gynecologist, I also consulted a dermatologist and was prescribed topical retinoids.
There was noticeable improvement in the first couple of weeks, but then it returned to the previous state, so I stopped using it.
This past year, I followed the dermatologist's advice to use a milder cleanser, Sebamed, and recently tried using an enzyme soap to wash my face.
Neither has significantly improved my acne, although the enzyme soap seemed to work slightly better.
For the past month, my washing routine has focused on the T-zone, while I only let the foam from the cleanser briefly touch my cheeks when rinsing with warm water.
Sometimes I massage my cheeks a bit before washing.
Occasionally, I might wash for too long or scrub my face, leading to some areas becoming slightly flaky.
In such cases, I apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel, which is commonly available at drugstores, and if I pay attention the next day, the flakiness usually does not occur.
I wonder if this washing method is problematic?
Unless I have a performance in a club, I usually do not wear makeup, aside from occasionally applying aloe vera and sunscreen; I do not use any other products on my face.
My mother is quite surprised by my acne, as she believes my skin type is very similar to hers and that I should not be struggling with acne.
She has observed that I often touch my face or pop pimples, but I have significantly improved in this regard over the past couple of years and rarely touch my face, yet the acne persists.
Currently, I have many shallow acne scars on my cheeks.
My skin's oil production is manageable, and I do not need oil blotting papers.
I believe that aside from the acne, my skin is generally in good condition.
I am truly at a loss as to what could be causing my persistent acne, and it is quite distressing.
I would greatly appreciate your insights.
Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy message.
Thank you.
Qiqi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/19
Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
You still need to seek medical attention.
Medical regulations stipulate that a physician cannot diagnose or prescribe without a personal examination.
If you are very troubled, it is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Reply Date: 2016/02/19
More Info
Persistent acne can be a frustrating and distressing condition, especially when it has been ongoing since early adolescence. Based on your detailed description, it seems that you have experienced various types of acne, including closed comedones (whiteheads) and painful cystic acne, primarily on your forehead and cheeks. Let's break down some potential factors contributing to your acne and explore possible solutions.
Hormonal Factors
One significant aspect of your situation is the irregularity of your menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations can greatly influence acne development, particularly in females. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hormonal imbalances that may cause acne. Since you mentioned that you have been diagnosed with a deficiency in progesterone, this could be a contributing factor. Hormonal acne typically appears on the lower face, but it can also affect other areas. Consulting with a gynecologist or an endocrinologist for further evaluation of your hormonal levels might be beneficial.
Skincare Routine
Your skincare routine is another critical factor. While you have made efforts to use gentle cleansers, it’s essential to ensure that the products you choose are non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and suitable for your skin type. Over-washing or using harsh products can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne. The use of enzyme soap may be beneficial, but it’s important to monitor how your skin reacts. If you notice any irritation or excessive dryness, it may be worth reverting to a milder cleanser.
Diet and Lifestyle
You mentioned that your diet is generally healthy, but weight gain during high school could also play a role in acne development. While the relationship between diet and acne is still being studied, some individuals find that high-glycemic foods and dairy products can exacerbate their acne. Keeping a food diary to track any potential triggers might be helpful. Additionally, incorporating regular physical activity can improve overall health and may help regulate hormones, potentially reducing acne.
Stress and Mental Health
Stress can also be a significant factor in acne flare-ups. The pressures of school and life changes can lead to increased cortisol levels, which may contribute to acne. Finding effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise, can be beneficial.
Treatment Options
Since topical retinoids (like the A-acid you mentioned) provided some initial improvement, it may be worth discussing with your dermatologist the possibility of reintroducing them or considering other treatments. Options include:
1. Topical Antibiotics: These can help reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin.
2. Oral Medications: If topical treatments are insufficient, oral antibiotics or hormonal treatments (like birth control pills) may be considered.
3. Isotretinoin: For severe cases, isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) can be a highly effective treatment, but it comes with potential side effects and requires close monitoring.
Conclusion
In summary, persistent acne can stem from a combination of hormonal, lifestyle, and skincare factors. It’s crucial to work closely with a dermatologist who can tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. Additionally, addressing any underlying hormonal issues with a healthcare provider may provide further insights into your condition. Remember, managing acne often requires a multifaceted approach, and patience is key as you explore different treatments. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional help, as they can provide the most personalized and effective care.
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