I have just finished my second month after being prescribed to use retina-a (at pm) and Benzoyl peroxide 5% (at am) along with monocicline twice daily. I have to say that my face is looking a lot better, especially since the initial breakout, and I am quite happy with my progress. However, I wanted to know when I can stop using the BP 5% because it makes my face look greasy (shiny) but I don't want to stop using it too soon and start breaking out again.
Also while I'm at it, when should I stop using the monocicline? I am going to see my doctor tomorrow and I will ask him, I just wanted another opinion.
the thing I would get rid of first is the antibiotic....ask about tapering off, I'd insist on it even though they may say it isn't necessary, what's the harm in tapering off, and it may help your body adjust
keep on the topicals until you are off the antibiotic, once off then you can start tapering one or the other to every other day and see how your skin reacts
I've been there before, you have to make changes slowly, tapering off on antibiotics AND topicals....do not change too much once you get clear....acne is a sneaky foe, stay on top of it!
congrats on your progress so far!
I have just finished my second month after being prescribed to use retina-a (at pm) and Benzoyl peroxide 5% (at am) along with monocicline twice daily. I have to say that my face is looking a lot better, especially since the initial breakout, and I am quite happy with my progress. However, I wanted to know when I can stop using the BP 5% because it makes my face look greasy (shiny) but I don't want to stop using it too soon and start breaking out again.
Also while I'm at it, when should I stop using the monocicline? I am going to see my doctor tomorrow and I will ask him, I just wanted another opinion.
All the methods of treatment you are using (topical retinoid + topical antibiotic + oral antibiotic) are used to control acne but they cannot achieve remission. Thus, if you stop them it it is likely that your acne will return, particularly if you are young and/or had severe acne.
If I were you I would stop only 1 of the antibiotics (BP if it is irritating) and stay on the monocicline.
Good luck
Use CVS oilpads to take of the greasy look and shine off your face. Continue to use the bp and retina and antibiotics until your dermatologist tells you otherwise.
So the oilpads won't remove the benzoyl peroxide? I was always confused about this... Does the BP go on the skin or does it soak into the skin? If it soaks in, then I see how this would work (the oilpads).
Thanks for the help