I've been trying to avoid posting personal stories and emotional releases, but seeing how supportive the people have been on this website I am willing to give it a shot. This post is partly for venting, partly for seeking advice if by coincidence a reader comes across something they are familiar with. (In addition I have posted a few pics below for those of you who soooo nice to provide advice, or if you're just curious.)

To be brief, I'll tell you that like many others who post here I have been struggling with acne for a significant part of my short existence; but unlike others, my acne is quite widespread throughout my body. For example: my arms (upper & lower), thighs, butt, back, chest, neck, and of course face. And for those of you who wonder if I have something different than acne on my body - the answer is yes and no. Yes, I also have folliculitis. But according to lab results from my dermatologist, it's a mix of acne and acne-like (e.g. bacterial) inflammation. This creates a somewhat embarrassing situation every day; of course, some people are bold enough to ask "what is that on your arms?" and I will shrug and say, it's a skin problem.

A bit of background on myself: I have used "The Regimen" for over a year now. At first it seemed to work amazingly well; I would say my face was completely clear at certain points. But now that same regimen appears useless. Likewise, I have had clear skin on my body; once during a summer research program in California, and again both times while visiting China. But replicating those scenarios (at least in diet, the supplements I was taking at the time, etc.) hasn't been fruitful despite committing to these changes for 8+ weeks. I've tried Ziana (Clindamycin), Nicazel Forte, and antibiotics (doxycyclene). Frustrated now, I feel the only known possible solution left for me is accutane - in fact, it's what I'll push my dermatologist to prescribe me next.

Let me know anything that comes to mind. I'd love to hear from you guys!