5 replies to this topic

[Wyoclimber]

Hello all,

I've struggled with acne since the age of 11, and it continues to plague me through my college years (I'll be 20 in less than 3 months!). I've used a variety of treatments with little success, including minocycline, doxycycline, dozens of perscripption and OTC spot treatments and washes- pretty much everyone else's story. I think my acne would be considered "moderate," but I still want a few opinions on it. It has gotten worse over the past 4 months, with a few concentrated breakouts that would cause recurring zits in the same spot. I also have a fair bit of scarring and hyperpigmentation, which isn't very flattering by any means. My biggest problem is my left cheek, but this past month it seems like the right one got jealous and wanted some attention too.

Note: Sorry for the creepy blacked out eyes- I find my acne very embarrassing and prefer a degree of anonymity for now, though I'm sure you're all very nice people

 before 2.jpg   62.25K   4 downloads

 before.jpg   55.65K   4 downloads

 before 4.jpg   68.17K   3 downloads

 before 3.jpg   77.65K   5 downloads

Ugh.

I'm also kinda hoping to do a "before and after" thing. I stumbled upon this website today and became pretty interested in trying out a daily honey mask and see how it helps. It seems to be very beneficial based on the reviews, so I'm going to pick some up tonight and see how it works- I'm most bothered by the redness and inflamed appearance that my skin gets. If anyone has any particular experience with this treatment or has any other suggestions, please reply! I'm so sick of this incredibly persistent acne.

-Brian

[Livvie]

Hello Brian.

Aren't we all haha. Sorry to hear your frustration, and really your acne is not quite at the level of severe. Don't feel bad.

You might try a yogurt/honey/oat facial mask. It typically takes 3 days to see results but really helps with the redness. It is also VERY moisturizing. I can give you further directions if you're interested.

Tea tree oil is also soothing on breakouts...I use it nightly; it smells great and its antibacterial properties make it perfect for acne. Just dilute it at first before you up the concentration...it's strong.

P.S. I have done many honey masks before myself. There are pros and cons to them. They moisturize well, leaving your skin softer and glossier. But you should leave it on for a while...preferably overnight. It is sticky and you have to sleep on your back. I haven't noticed that (by itself) it helps with acne, but hey it doesn't hurt!

Edited by Livvie, 21 January 2013 - 05:15 PM.

[Wyoclimber]

Well, looks like I'm allergic to honey. Broke out in a rash around my mouth. Lovely.

[Livvie]

What kind of honey did you use? Some people can only tollerate organic honey that has been minimally processed.

Also, the rubbing that it takes to get the honey off can irritate your skin, causing breakouts...

Sometimes its kind of a trial-and-error thing. You gotta do what works best for you.

[Wyoclimber]

Meh, maybe.  The rash went away by the morning thankfully, but I don't think I'll try it again- it made my eyes itch and everything.  Maybe yogurt or something next time...damn this is frustrating!

[JWaltersRN]

OCM 2x per day, ACV toner, and weekly acid peels. Works wonders and reduces scarring. PM for more info if you're interested.