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[stardusts]

I moved to Canada from the far east 20 yrs ago. (Background: Chinese with part Portuguese from mother’s side.) Back home, I didn’t have acne problems. After I settled down here, I got more breakouts but they were under control.

After I graduated from college and traveled/worked around the globe, I had occasional breakouts. I used OTC BP which worked OK. Later in 1998, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer (very early form) and the whole thyroid gland was removed. Since then, I take thyroid tablets every day. My breakouts, noticeably, got worse afterwards. In 2002, I got the prescription of topical Clindamycin 2% in AHA 8% solution from my doc. I used it for only 2 weeks and the breakouts had stopped for nearly 6 yrs. (Note: I didn’t use the prescribed solution after the 2-week course since I didn’t develop papules/pustules. And, I didn’t wear make-up since 2002.) I only had white/blackheads, no red/painful bumps.

In Mar 2008, the breakouts came back – mostly in t-zone. The inflamed lesions blossoming on my face just baffled me. I have no clue how my face became a fertile ground for zits in my thirties. I used tea tree oil to treat them but it gave me red spots and flaky skin (stupid me). Starting in Dec 2008, I take supplements (omega-3/multi-vitamins) plus topical regimens with BP and BHA from Paula’s Choice. I stop using tea tree oil; I stop drinking milk on a daily basis; I eat colorful veggies. The breakouts seem die down a little bit.

I don’t know if it’s related to stress or lifestyle or diets. (or, genetic mutation? haha.) I plan to see a derm if my condition doesn’t improve. I believe there’re solutions/remedies. Anyway, it’s my story. Thanks for reading my babbles. Best wishes to you all and thanks for sharing your stories/experiences.