Without actually knowing what type of acne you have (comedonal, papulopustular, cystic, etc.); how extensive your problem is (just chin and jawline; full face; face, neck and trunk, etc.), as well as how long you have been using your current regimen--and whether you are using the meds properly, it is really difficult to address your question in any, but the most general way. Topical prescription medications should be applied in pea-sized amounts to thoroughly dried skin (to prevent unnecessary irritation, redness and scaling). One such regimen might include the use of a benzoyl peroxide gel in the morning and retinoid at night. Realistically, benefits usually begin to be seen somewhere between eight to sixteen weeks following proper and regular use. So patience here is indeed a virtue. The use of gentle soaps (no scrubs, Clarisonics, or scrub brushes) helps to reduce unnecessary irritation. In office dermatology treatments including acne surgery, which includes cleaning out blackheads and whiteheads (the forerunners of acne breakouts); and the injection of antiinflammatory medications into already formed acne cysts and nodules (which, if they persist, can result in permanent scars). Treatments with IPL and BBL are backed by a whole lot of marketing hype, but not much hard science, and certainly should not be relied upon as a primary treatment. Be cautious, as well, when oral antibiotics are offered, especially if suggested as monotherapy, as this is no longer considered standard of good medical care. Be cautious, as well, if Accutane is offered up front, especially if it is prescribed before a proper course of combination simpler and safter at-home and in-office treatments have been tried appropriately and for an adequate period of time. Make sure that you consult with a board certified dermatologist experienced in acne treatments.
