Severe acne, maybe cystic
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free skin care · Tue May 11, 2004 11:50 am

Hi this post is for my sister. She doesn't seem to be interested lately in trying any new products herself, and thinks nothing is going to work. She's still young but her acne is quite severe and has been now for years. She's 19 and her skin has been like this since she was about 14 or so. The condition of the skin is inflamed, red, and the acne is bumpy and looks like red swelling all over her face (especially her nose, cheeks, and chin). I feel like helping her because I think it really bothers her and she's acts as if it doens't, and almost doesnt' try anything new now other than cleanse and treat with some cream she has left over that also proved to be useless.

Things we've used include antibiotics, she is currently on her second month of Dianne35 (pill), and she also has tried and seen no success with Proactiv, as well as a benzoyl peroxide formulation that I recently bought for her.

I figured this forum has been wonderful in suggesting things for my skintype and relatively 'small' concerns of blackheads and large pores, that I would ask if anyone can suggest varying things for her. I take it there are lines out there that may be good, but if the site admin or individuals have experienced improvement with a cocktail of prods, or particular prods then please give me some tips and I will buy for her.

I really want to help her and am willing to buy things for her as long as I know my money is going towards something recommended. Thank you kindly.

free skin care · Tue May 11, 2004 8:21 pm

I also had trouble with cystic acne when I was her age and into my mid twenties. The best thing to do is find a good dermatologist. The thing that worked best for me was trimethoprim (oral antibiotics) twice a day, retin A micro, and clindagel (topical antibiotic). I still use this regimin occasionally. The last six months I have been using vitamin C serum and my face has been the clearest it has ever been in my life. I still use the retin A, but only every other night.

liz

Sun May 16, 2004 10:01 am

Hi,
I have had problems on and off with acne for the past 10yrs or so and have tried everything. One of the best product lines to use os MD formulations especially the benzol peroxide 10. I have recently come off trimethoprim because we are trying for a baby and the MD seems to be keeping everything clear.....so far! Hope this helps!

Sun May 16, 2004 1:05 pm

Hi Roopdh,

Has she ever used retinoids such as Retin A, Tazorac or Differin? Retin A Micro is supposed to be very good because it is less irritating than Retin A. Also Tazorac is said to be much stronger and more efficient, yet less irritating than tretinoins.
Here is a link that gives lots of info on skincare, acne, and retinoids:

http://www.basiaandcarol.com/English-index.htm .

Also, the birth control pills are not going to work right away. It might take 6 months to see improvement and it might get really bad before it gets better.
I think a good exfoliator with AHA and BHA will do wonders as well as Retin A Micro or Tazorac. Must use sunscreen with minimum SPF 30 during the day since AHA/BHA/Retinoids are skin photosensitisers. Hope this helps

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