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That was me last week! But the more your pores can get rid of whatever is in there, perhaps that means that will be last breakout in that area. I guess we just need to keep our heads up and stay the course. For me it's the last clearing of clogged pores and the battle of the hormonal pop ups that happen during the week out of nowhere. I'd rather at least see a clogged pore and know that I have to contend with the sucker at some point. One more day down! Pop your spironolacone and head up girl. We got this 
)
I had a small breakout yesterday. Not terrible but enough to make me discouraged. I guess it's two steps forward and one step back. I have to keep reminding myself that it's at least better than it was a few months ago & that I am making progress although it feels painfully slow!
I am so happy with my skin today. It hasnt been this clear and smooth in a long time. I have a little cyst trying to form on my chin and I still have the cluster under my jaw but overall my skin hasnt looked this goodin a long time. I finally found a foundation that is a good match for my skin tone and paired with the right concealer I am able to cover my scars! I hope the Spiro and BC are working and not just the Doxy. Ill be getting off the Doxy after I finish this month's Rx and it kind of makes me nervous. Maybe at some point I will work up the courage to post some progress pics.
That is truly SO great to hear!! You are two weeks ahead of me on the Spiro treatment and a good month on the Doxy. I love to see others progressing as this gives me so much hope. I know it is a dance, steps forward, steps back and really tests your patience. What foundation, concealer do you like to use? I stopped wearing foundation years ago and just cover any spots or PIH with a little concealer or foundation. The rest of my skin tone is pretty good, so I can get away without especially with all of my freckles. Plus i'm no good at using makeup anymore lol I would horrify others if I tried to put on foundation :-/
I am so happy with my skin today. It hasnt been this clear and smooth in a long time. I have a little cyst trying to form on my chin and I still have the cluster under my jaw but overall my skin hasnt looked this goodin a long time. I finally found a foundation that is a good match for my skin tone and paired with the right concealer I am able to cover my scars! I hope the Spiro and BC are working and not just the Doxy. Ill be getting off the Doxy after I finish this month's Rx and it kind of makes me nervous. Maybe at some point I will work up the courage to post some progress pics.
I am so happy with my skin today. It hasnt been this clear and smooth in a long time. I have a little cyst trying to form on my chin and I still have the cluster under my jaw but overall my skin hasnt looked this goodin a long time. I finally found a foundation that is a good match for my skin tone and paired with the right concealer I am able to cover my scars! I hope the Spiro and BC are working and not just the Doxy. Ill be getting off the Doxy after I finish this month's Rx and it kind of makes me nervous. Maybe at some point I will work up the courage to post some progress pics.
well that is good news! glad to hear that things are looking up. as far as the doxy goes i would be leary about getting off of it so quick. i would wait until you are closer to the 6 month mark and then slowly wean off of it and see how it goes or you can drop down the dose to 50mg twice a day and see what happens. right now its probably just the doxy keeping you clear so if you get off of it before the spiro kicks in you could be in trouble.
my derm always had me take doxy in 6 month intervals but not sure what your derm recommended for you. ask them to see what they think before you do anything.
I have been using Clinique concealer and Physician's Formula mineral powder and blush. I dont like wearing foundation but I knew I'd feel better with a little more coverage. I've tried some expensive BB Cream from ULTA and Clinique and I could never get a good match. I finally just went to CVS and picked out something myself without any help and its a good match! Its Neutrogena Skin Clearing Liquid foundation. First pic was several weeks ago. I had a breakout on my forehead and on the left side of my jaw as well. I am wearing makeup in the second pic (today) but its more true to life because my PIH is covered. I am so embarrased to post pics but I know I've appreciated other people' showing their progress so I guess its my turn. Lets hope this is the beginning of the end for me.
That is truly SO great to hear!! You are two weeks ahead of me on the Spiro treatment and a good month on the Doxy. I love to see others progressing as this gives me so much hope. I know it is a dance, steps forward, steps back and really tests your patience. What foundation, concealer do you like to use? I stopped wearing foundation years ago and just cover any spots or PIH with a little concealer or foundation. The rest of my skin tone is pretty good, so I can get away without especially with all of my freckles. Plus i'm no good at using makeup anymore lol I would horrify others if I tried to put on foundation :-/
I am so happy with my skin today. It hasnt been this clear and smooth in a long time. I have a little cyst trying to form on my chin and I still have the cluster under my jaw but overall my skin hasnt looked this goodin a long time. I finally found a foundation that is a good match for my skin tone and paired with the right concealer I am able to cover my scars! I hope the Spiro and BC are working and not just the Doxy. Ill be getting off the Doxy after I finish this month's Rx and it kind of makes me nervous. Maybe at some point I will work up the courage to post some progress pics.
Yeah for sure see what the derm says. I was on doxy on and off for 2 years and had no side effects and was on keflex for 11 months with no issues as well and years before that i took minocycline, amoxicillin and even bactrim for a bit and was fine too. You should be just fine if you stay on the doxy longer. By the way your skin looks amazing in the second pic!! You look great!
Your skin is looking great!!! I see your taking 100mg of Spiro, I'm thinking of asking my derm to up mine to 75mg. My skin is doing better as far as the break outs I'm getting but I still get pimples around that time of month so I think maybe 75 might clear me even more well that's what Im hoping for ....Congrats on your beautiful skin 
You look GREAT! My skin is very similar to yours in the first pic, mild on the lower half of my face. I think we just need to get our pores cleared of all the junk and stay on doxy until the breakouts are over. Many users will share that spiro and doxy can't stop old acne or clogged pores but it can help prevent knew. The doxy has been a god send against the inflammation as I am sure you feel the same. I agree covering up and wearing a little makeup is worth it if it can make you feel at least better. It's hard enough to get through the darn day wondering whats going to crop up, it's nice to look in the mirror and see a beautiful face staring back. You are well on your way girl. Cheers to spiro and I use the same foundation but as a spot concealer, def don't look as polished as you do in the 2nd photo. )
I have been using Clinique concealer and Physician's Formula mineral powder and blush. I dont like wearing foundation but I knew I'd feel better with a little more coverage. I've tried some expensive BB Cream from ULTA and Clinique and I could never get a good match. I finally just went to CVS and picked out something myself without any help and its a good match! Its Neutrogena Skin Clearing Liquid foundation. First pic was several weeks ago. I had a breakout on my forehead and on the left side of my jaw as well. I am wearing makeup in the second pic (today) but its more true to life because my PIH is covered. I am so embarrased to post pics but I know I've appreciated other people' showing their progress so I guess its my turn. Lets hope this is the beginning of the end for me.
That is truly SO great to hear!! You are two weeks ahead of me on the Spiro treatment and a good month on the Doxy. I love to see others progressing as this gives me so much hope. I know it is a dance, steps forward, steps back and really tests your patience. What foundation, concealer do you like to use? I stopped wearing foundation years ago and just cover any spots or PIH with a little concealer or foundation. The rest of my skin tone is pretty good, so I can get away without especially with all of my freckles. Plus i'm no good at using makeup anymore lol I would horrify others if I tried to put on foundation :-/
I am so happy with my skin today. It hasnt been this clear and smooth in a long time. I have a little cyst trying to form on my chin and I still have the cluster under my jaw but overall my skin hasnt looked this goodin a long time. I finally found a foundation that is a good match for my skin tone and paired with the right concealer I am able to cover my scars! I hope the Spiro and BC are working and not just the Doxy. Ill be getting off the Doxy after I finish this month's Rx and it kind of makes me nervous. Maybe at some point I will work up the courage to post some progress pics.
How long have you been on Spiro?
Your skin is looking great!!! I see your taking 100mg of Spiro, I'm thinking of asking my derm to up mine to 75mg. My skin is doing better as far as the break outs I'm getting but I still get pimples around that time of month so I think maybe 75 might clear me even more well that's what Im hoping for ....Congrats on your beautiful skin
I hear you. I've not been on Spiro but I had a similar thing the first time I did a course of Accutane, and I've also got the history of severe depression (I'm finally coming off my venlafaxine/Effexor after 6 years). I really hope the Spiro helps for you. Having said that, I'm wondering if it's a good idea to mix an isotretinoin topical with BP. Did your derm say that was ok? I was told not to use both because it can just cause more inflammation.
I hate taking antibiotics long-term because they can mess with your digestion (although a probiotic can help with that) and I already have issues with that, but if you're fine on them, then it's safe to do so.
So bummed! Have gone 4 days without anything crazy and just now noticed a hard swollen bump on my chin. So discouraging, dealing with clearing the clogged pores and comedones has been hard enough. Here we go, a few steps back and hoping steps forward. I already want to cancel my plans tomorrow night. Tonight I have no choice to go out, but all I want to do is put some BHA on this sucker and pray it goes down. Uggghhh it's so hard to stay positive when this happens. What do you girls do to get through these killer moments?!?
I hear you. I've not been on Spiro but I had a similar thing the first time I did a course of Accutane, and I've also got the history of severe depression (I'm finally coming off my venlafaxine/Effexor after 6 years). I really hope the Spiro helps for you. Having said that, I'm wondering if it's a good idea to mix an isotretinoin topical with BP. Did your derm say that was ok? I was told not to use both because it can just cause more inflammation.
I hate taking antibiotics long-term because they can mess with your digestion (although a probiotic can help with that) and I already have issues with that, but if you're fine on them, then it's safe to do so.
My last appointment I told my derm I had ditched the aczone for BP and he said that was fine.
So bummed! Have gone 4 days without anything crazy and just now noticed a hard swollen bump on my chin. So discouraging, dealing with clearing the clogged pores and comedones has been hard enough. Here we go, a few steps back and hoping steps forward. I already want to cancel my plans tomorrow night. Tonight I have no choice to go out, but all I want to do is put some BHA on this sucker and pray it goes down. Uggghhh it's so hard to stay positive when this happens. What do you girls do to get through these killer moments?!?
So sorry. Sometimes I cancel plans and hide out if I am feeling super depressed but usually if I just put on make up and force myself to get out of the house I usually end up having a good time and am glad I didn't cancel. My husband is good about encouraging me not to cancel plans with friends and constantly reminds me that no one else sees my skin as nearly as bad as I do. I am a Christian and reading and thinking on Bible verses with prayer help me when I am low. It helps for me to remember that character is what really makes a person beautiful, not just the condition of their skin. And that God won't give me more than I can handle and that He will give me strength to face whatever may come.
Just an update- I've been clear since my last post except for the cluster under my jaw that have been there for weeks! I'm beginning to think they will be there forever. I have one clogged pore that looks like it's trying to get inflamed but other than that I've had a good week! The last cyst that was forming on my chin drained like 2 days after it appeared and never really developed into anything angry. I'm starting to have hope that this is the beginning of longer term clarity. I am going to try to convince my derm to keep me on Doxy for at least another month. I think I see him in a week or 2.
I have been praying a lot. Asking for strength to get through this challenging time. I am experiencing some depression for sure and it's hard to get out of my own way sometimes. Are there any versus or readings you recommend?
I truly am so happy to hear that you have had such a good run without any breakouts, that is so so encouraging. The more I hear about it working for other women, the more hope I have. This is truly the greatest test on my patience that I may have endured and I know this lesson will be used throughout my life. I just need some encouragement and support and I know I can get through this as you have. Keep sharing your progress with us, that is definitely a good deed!
I hear you. I've not been on Spiro but I had a similar thing the first time I did a course of Accutane, and I've also got the history of severe depression (I'm finally coming off my venlafaxine/Effexor after 6 years). I really hope the Spiro helps for you. Having said that, I'm wondering if it's a good idea to mix an isotretinoin topical with BP. Did your derm say that was ok? I was told not to use both because it can just cause more inflammation.
I hate taking antibiotics long-term because they can mess with your digestion (although a probiotic can help with that) and I already have issues with that, but if you're fine on them, then it's safe to do so.
My last appointment I told my derm I had ditched the aczone for BP and he said that was fine.
S
o bummed! Have gone 4 days without anything crazy and just now noticed a hard swollen bump on my chin. So discouraging, dealing with clearing the clogged pores and comedones has been hard enough. Here we go, a few steps back and hoping steps forward. I already want to cancel my plans tomorrow night. Tonight I have no choice to go out, but all I want to do is put some BHA on this sucker and pray it goes down. Uggghhh it's so hard to stay positive when this happens. What do you girls do to get through these killer moments?!?
Here are some verses that I love!
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.
Romans 8:28 (The whole chapter is my fav or the whole Bible)
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (It really helps for me know that this is happening for a greater purpose."God doesnt waste a hurt! He disciplines those he loves!)
Psalm 37 is a great chapter when I am feeling anxious and depressed. So many of the Psalms are great for crying out to God for help.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Story of Job. God allowed Satan to attack Job but only within the limits he set. It's helpful to remember that we can only be oppressed so much- only to the point that God allows and in the end it serves to draw us closer to him and that at some point he will deliver us whether in this life or the next.
I know it's cliche but it helps to count my blessings. I have a wonderful husband and three beautiful children. We have all we need and I should be really thankful that acne is the biggest issue in my life at the moment. At the same time I've felt guilty for being depressed over it but I do believe God hears my cries and I am thankful that he has provided medication to help me- for the acne and the depression that has come along with it. I hope this gives you a bit of encouragement. I am not battling this out like a true saint like I want - I've definitely had some low lows -but it's nice to know the anchor of faith will hold me down and God won't let me get too far away.
I attached a picture of an exerpt from Spurgeon's Morning and Evening that a friend sent me today that lifted me up.
Doesn't look like my pic worked. Trying again...
Thank you!!!!! This truly is what I needed to read and be reminded of. I was talking with a really good friend yesterday and in letting things out I told her I just wanted hope that this dark period would not be forever. That I would get through it. I can handle challenges in life, but it's definitely more difficult when there is not a cement end date, it's so ambiguouos. This journey has caused my faith to grow, my self exploration amongst many things. I will take what you have shared with me and continue to use this as a tool. I too am so thankful for all that I have in my life, work I love, friends that are supportive, family that is truly there for me, resources for a comfortable life, insurance/doctors/medications to treat this, and this forum that helped lead me on this path. I'm so grateful for this today. I have to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Here are some verses that I love!
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.
Romans 8:28 (The whole chapter is my fav or the whole Bible)
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (It really helps for me know that this is happening for a greater purpose."God doesnt waste a hurt! He disciplines those he loves!)
Psalm 37 is a great chapter when I am feeling anxious and depressed. So many of the Psalms are great for crying out to God for help.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Story of Job. God allowed Satan to attack Job but only within the limits he set. It's helpful to remember that we can only be oppressed so much- only to the point that God allows and in the end it serves to draw us closer to him and that at some point he will deliver us whether in this life or the next.
I know it's cliche but it helps to count my blessings. I have a wonderful husband and three beautiful children. We have all we need and I should be really thankful that acne is the biggest issue in my life at the moment. At the same time I've felt guilty for being depressed over it but I do believe God hears my cries and I am thankful that he has provided medication to help me- for the acne and the depression that has come along with it. I hope this gives you a bit of encouragement. I am not battling this out like a true saint like I want - I've definitely had some low lows -but it's nice to know the anchor of faith will hold me down and God won't let me get too far away.
I attached a picture of an exerpt from Spurgeon's Morning and Evening that a friend sent me today that lifted me up.
Doesn't look like my pic worked. Trying again...
Carpe, (what's your name if you don't mind sharing? I am Ashley.) I am so glad you've gotten some encouragement from it. I felt encouraged myself putting it together for you so I guess I needed the reminders also! I have been lax in my Bible study time lately and it definitely puts a hamper on my mood. I am much more apt to be less depressed when I spend quality time with the Lord. And I totally get the "I don't have the end in sight" thing. I still have fear that this battle with acne is not over. I mean what happens when I have to get off of BCP at some point or even Spiro? But then I remember in Matthew 5 Jesus says not to worry about tomorrow, today has enough worry for itself. So true. I'll be thankful that I am clear(ish) today and fight the battle again if/when it happens again.
Thank you!!!!! This truly is what I needed to read and be reminded of. I was talking with a really good friend yesterday and in letting things out I told her I just wanted hope that this dark period would not be forever. That I would get through it. I can handle challenges in life, but it's definitely more difficult when there is not a cement end date, it's so ambiguouos. This journey has caused my faith to grow, my self exploration amongst many things. I will take what you have shared with me and continue to use this as a tool. I too am so thankful for all that I have in my life, work I love, friends that are supportive, family that is truly there for me, resources for a comfortable life, insurance/doctors/medications to treat this, and this forum that helped lead me on this path. I'm so grateful for this today. I have to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Here are some verses that I love!
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.
Romans 8:28 (The whole chapter is my fav or the whole Bible)
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (It really helps for me know that this is happening for a greater purpose."God doesnt waste a hurt! He disciplines those he loves!)
Psalm 37 is a great chapter when I am feeling anxious and depressed. So many of the Psalms are great for crying out to God for help.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Story of Job. God allowed Satan to attack Job but only within the limits he set. It's helpful to remember that we can only be oppressed so much- only to the point that God allows and in the end it serves to draw us closer to him and that at some point he will deliver us whether in this life or the next.
I know it's cliche but it helps to count my blessings. I have a wonderful husband and three beautiful children. We have all we need and I should be really thankful that acne is the biggest issue in my life at the moment. At the same time I've felt guilty for being depressed over it but I do believe God hears my cries and I am thankful that he has provided medication to help me- for the acne and the depression that has come along with it. I hope this gives you a bit of encouragement. I am not battling this out like a true saint like I want - I've definitely had some low lows -but it's nice to know the anchor of faith will hold me down and God won't let me get too far away.
I attached a picture of an exerpt from Spurgeon's Morning and Evening that a friend sent me today that lifted me up.
Doesn't look like my pic worked. Trying again...
Hi Ashley! Mine is Liz. I read through all of these and looked up the Psalm you recommended. I have a strong spiritual self that is always open to inspiration, guidance and others perspectives. I pulled out some old prayer cards from my Nana today and remembered the feeling these have given me in such dark times. I prayed to St Jude today, I pray for strength, courage and hope. I am in the thick of it right now with my own thoughts and feelings, and the work I have to do is on myself. I have to trust that this medication is doing it's job (it clearly has done something lol) and put all of my faith into knowing I am on the right path and he will not lead me astray. Please continue to share and post. Would love to hear more about your studies if you feel like sharing, please also feel free to PM me. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to help me push through one more day!
Carpe, (what's your name if you don't mind sharing? I am Ashley.) I am so glad you've gotten some encouragement from it. I felt encouraged myself putting it together for you so I guess I needed the reminders also! I have been lax in my Bible study time lately and it definitely puts a hamper on my mood. I am much more apt to be less depressed when I spend quality time with the Lord. And I totally get the "I don't have the end in sight" thing. I still have fear that this battle with acne is not over. I mean what happens when I have to get off of BCP at some point or even Spiro? But then I remember in Matthew 5 Jesus says not to worry about tomorrow, today has enough worry for itself. So true. I'll be thankful that I am clear(ish) today and fight the battle again if/when it happens again.
I had a little breakout a few days ago under my mouth. Partially my fault. I thought my skin could use a break so I washed my face and went to bed without putting anything on it and I had a few surprises in the morning. I guess the topicals are doing their part too. Still trying to recover the spot on my jaw as well. I've never had spots that have stayed as long as these have. We are going on at least a month. I'd rather have them there than anywhere else though. Rambling update.
ABen, your posts remind me so much of myself that I just had to comment. First time that I have actually posted in years. Sad that my user name is decadeofacne. Feels like a lot longer now. Anyway, I too am a believer and try each day to focus on God's word. He does not see my acne, but sees my heart. I teach my girls that their beauty is on the inside, yet struggle to leave the house when I am having a bad skin day. It seems that my day completely revolves around the state of my skin, which is so sad. I have so much to be thankful for, yet can't seem to pull myself out of this anxiety caused by my skin.
I have been on a dozen topicals, but my clearer years seem to be when I was on bcp. Unfortunately, I am off bcp for good due to a recently diagnosed blood clotting disorder. I am on day 35 of spiro. I started at 25mg and gradually worked my way up to 100mg. I see my dr tomorrow. Hopefully she won't mind that I bumped up my dosage- I was supposed to be on 50mg. So far, no huge breakout, but no real improvement, either. I know that spiro takes patience, but I find myself feeling hopeless. All I see in the mirror are my flaws, every scar, clogged pore, etc. I'm sure no one else thinks my skin is as bad as I do, but I just can't seem to get past this obsession. Thank you to all of you for sharing your stories and helping me to feel not so alone.
Good morning! Hearing how you are feeling is exactly how I had been for the past few months dealing with acne and my spiro journey. Things got so bad that I had to make the decision to be put on an anti anxiety medication because it started to consume me and cause depression. I never thought that I would be on a medication or that acne would be the cause of it, but it is so true how it can become an obsession. I hope that the spiro really starts to work for you soon, please keep your faith and hope. I'm over 3 months now and starting to finally see some consistency in no new spots, just clearing of old clogged pores (still not fun) but better than new spots each week. Keep your head up and keep marching on, you are finally doing something that could really make a huge difference in your acne and your life. It stinks that it takes so long sometimes, but out of difficulties and struggles grow miracles. Sending you positive thoughts today.
ABen, your posts remind me so much of myself that I just had to comment. First time that I have actually posted in years. Sad that my user name is decadeofacne. Feels like a lot longer now. Anyway, I too am a believer and try each day to focus on God's word. He does not see my acne, but sees my heart. I teach my girls that their beauty is on the inside, yet struggle to leave the house when I am having a bad skin day. It seems that my day completely revolves around the state of my skin, which is so sad. I have so much to be thankful for, yet can't seem to pull myself out of this anxiety caused by my skin.
I have been on a dozen topicals, but my clearer years seem to be when I was on bcp. Unfortunately, I am off bcp for good due to a recently diagnosed blood clotting disorder. I am on day 35 of spiro. I started at 25mg and gradually worked my way up to 100mg. I see my dr tomorrow. Hopefully she won't mind that I bumped up my dosage- I was supposed to be on 50mg. So far, no huge breakout, but no real improvement, either. I know that spiro takes patience, but I find myself feeling hopeless. All I see in the mirror are my flaws, every scar, clogged pore, etc. I'm sure no one else thinks my skin is as bad as I do, but I just can't seem to get past this obsession. Thank you to all of you for sharing your stories and helping me to feel not so alone.
It took about six months for spiro to kick in for me. But once it did I stayed clear on it for five years. It was amazing. I felt like how normal peeps felt ha. Sadly about a month ago after having a rare skin disorder my skin started breaking out again out of no where I'm not in amoxicillin. I think my dr thinks it just a random thing and hopefully in a few months it will pass and the spiro will start to work again. I forgot how bad I hate this crap. Keep ditching my friends and they are getting mad. Oh well.