I have moderate to severe cystic acne, and have for years. I have tried everything from antibiotics, expensive salon products, hydra facial (a lot of them), OTC creams/gels/washes, you name it. I am trying to do anything in my power to avoid taking accutane (isotretinoin). I am now on birth control (preogestrone/estrogen) and I am hoping this helps. I used to wear makeup every day and wash it off, but I have finally decided to stop using makeup altogether. This has helped prevent many clogged pores and pimples; areas of my face are much smoother, but after months of this, the cystic acne/papilla still remain s continue to form. I believe my acne is hormonal because it's consistently around my inner cheeks, chin, and jawline. I have very oily skin as well. Lately, I have been using crushed up ibuprofen tablets as a spot treatment to reduce inflammation, along with a gently Dermalogica face wash. This regimen seems to be helping, but I want to be able to stop these cysts from forming withiut going on accutane. Should I change my diet, or wait around for the birth control regimen to start working?