I am a 17 year old male, living in the UK and have been struggling with acne since puberty began at about 13, so for almost 4 years.

I began experimenting with different drugstore creams, face masks, home remedies etc. None of these worked for me at all and my acne made me increasingly depressed.

I finally went to the doctor about a year ago and was prescribed 2 different topical antibiotics, with benzoyl peroxide. These also did not work and I continued to notice morespots.

I was finally prescribed Tetralysl Limecycline about 10 months ago, I had a three month course and I noticed a different in my acne, FINALLY!!! but soon after the three month treatment my acne came back worse than ever. I quickly went back for another three month treatment when the same thing happens again. I became addicted, not because the drug is addictive, but I was addicted to the results, and then when my acne came back I wanted more so I could see results again. I went back for a third three month cycle and the same thing happened again.

I've been off the drug for a number of months now and I am feeling depressed again. People are pointing out and noticing my acne which makes me hide my face when I talk etc. I am extremely self conscious, before acne i was even 'over confident.' My self esteem has been ruined.

I am am seriously stuck for what to do next, I am beginning to think I will have acne forever, which I don't want to think because I know there must be something out there!

I am am considering asking for Isotretionoin (accutane) but I am aware of the huge side effects.

Coming from someone that has: tried several courses of antibiotics, several types of cream, home remedies like honey, aspirin and all types of drug store products, I want to ask, is there hope? I also eat clean as I can and drink an drink litres of water per day with no results.

Please suggest wheter you feel accutane/isotretinoin is worth it and any other suggestions that have worked for your acne

thanks