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Hi,
I've been battling acne since I was 13 (i'm almost 22 now) and I'm still not over it. It keeps getting better, then worse, and so it goes.
More than 10 dermatologists have given me prescriptions throughout all these years. So I may say I've experienced the effects of many available ointments, lotions (such as benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, tretinoine, retinoic acid, sulfur soap...), and even antibiotics (tetracycline) on my skin. I haven't found the right doctor yet... It's so frustrating to spend so much money on these medicines and not seeing any real improvements. I guess you all may know that feel.
And by the way, I've gone through all the Accutane (isotretinoin) treatment months. Twice.
I tried uploading a couple of pictures for you to see and maybe give me some advice on treatments or simply daily skin care. And yes,it's only (and all over) in my cheeks, and nowhere else.
I also apologize for my bad english...
I am nervertheless really glad to find a community of people who have the same problems as me. I hope to do my best to help anyone who seeks advice or another sort of help.
Best regards,
Rafael
I know that I am new to this forum so my word might not stand as strong against others but I used to use all sorts of OTC products for when I had a light to moderate case of acne. I deal with comedones almost exclusively now. However, when I did have a case of acne I remember all the OTC products just worsened the situation for me. What ended up being my best move was going natural and ditching products. I washed my face twice a day instead of thrice a day and I used Scottish lye soap. It ended up really working but remember that everyone's skin is different and that there are other factors such as diet and stress. Best of luck.
I would second the recommendation to look at your diet. Many people seem to get delayed hypersensitivity reactions to things like wheat/other grains, dairy, and soy. Those are the big three. If I were to recommend a diet, I would probably go with the paleo diet + some rice if you like your grains. I'm 22 right now as well and my acne has drastically improved with the dietary changes I made, but it took time, and I'm not quite there yet. By time, I mean months, of course - but since your acne seems to be mostly inflammatory, simply removing foods you're sensitive to could prevent new ones from cropping up altogether. If you have digestive problems (should be going once a day, type 4 or 5 on bristol stool chart) it will take much longer, as you will need to heal the damage done by accutane and antibiotics (which is what I've had to do).
It might also be worth easing off on all topicals. I found that many of my smaller comedones went away when I stopped washing my face twice a day with a cleanser. I now wash once every other day with a cleanser, and 1-2 times a day with just warm water. I only apply moisturizer when really necessary. But again, you might not have to worry about this, since your acne seems to be mostly inflammatory.