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[bizz]

I've been off and on Retin-A since 14 (I hate it)--as in, use it every other day for a month, give up for three, start over and over. Now I'm on Ziana. I use BP in between.

This is one thing I've noticed with all retinoids--they cause whiteheads (perpetual purging---ugh) and oiliness and what's left is skin with the texture of cottage cheese, plus discoloration from irritation, zits, and (admittedly) my popping of those nasty little bubbles on the surface.

Is there anything I can do? I know my skin is supposed to appear red because the retinoids (Retin-A, and now, Ziana, which I'm concerned can cause diarrhea) are exfoliating my skin, but they're disgusting.

Is there a fool proof bleaching agent out there, someone I can put over my whole face that won't stir acne?

Sometimes I put Bactracin or Aquaphor on my face and it helps, but I'm dealing with what might even be Rosacea and it all looks like stripe-y, ugly, irritated skin plus unhealed nodules.

[Green Gables]

You have to get past the 3 month mark with retinoids to see improvement. My skn has the worst redness and purging for 3 months, then it seems to acclimate to the treatment.