Bumps all over forehead & some near chin. Acne products are not clearing it up. Should I see a different dermatologist? (Photos)

Question

My forehead is very waxy and has small colorless bumps and red irritated acne. I tried over the counter acne products, Prescription acne products ( Ziana and Retinol A), and wash my face morning and night. Im currently using Retinol A, it has been a little over two months. It seems like it doesnt want to go away. Should I see a different dermatologist? Does anyone have a suggestion on acne products that work great?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Dealing with persistent acne can be frustrating, especially when it seems resistant to treatment. Here are a few considerations and suggestions:

Consultation with a Dermatologist: If you’re not seeing improvement after using prescription treatments like Ziana and Retin-A for over two months, it might be beneficial to consult with your current dermatologist again or seek a second opinion. They can offer alternative treatments or adjust your current regimen.

Possible Adjustments: Sometimes, the concentration of the medication or the combination of treatments needs to be adjusted. Your dermatologist might consider adding oral medications, such as antibiotics or hormonal treatments, if appropriate.

Skincare Routine: Ensure your skincare routine supports your acne treatment. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and moisturizer to avoid further irritation. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can worsen irritation.

Diet and Lifestyle: Consider any dietary or lifestyle factors that might contribute to acne. Some individuals find that certain foods or stress levels impact their skin condition.

Additional Treatments: Discuss additional treatments with your dermatologist, such as chemical peels or laser therapy, which might help with persistent acne.

Patience with Treatments: It often takes several weeks to months to see significant improvement with acne treatments, especially with retinoids, so patience is essential.

Ultimately, working closely with a dermatologist who understands your unique skin needs will be key to finding an effective treatment plan.

Bumps all over forehead & some near chin. Acne products are not clearing it up. Should I see a different dermatologist? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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Bumps all over forehead & some near chin. Acne products are not clearing it up. Should I see a different dermatologist? (Photos)

Answers (1)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.