Dear Doctor
I have been suffering from acne problem since four years. My right face side is affected. And left side is clean. Acne appears on my chin, forehead also. When it finishes, it leaves a deep scar and spot on my face which looks ugly. I have never tried any dermatologist before, thinking that it will be ok soon. But it has turned into a regular thing. Please help me and tell me what should I use to remove it.
Dear Patient
The fact that the acne affects mainly one side of your face suggests that you may be coming in contact with something that is triggering the acne eruptions. These acne triggers can include:
Dirty pillows
Sleeping on a pillow on that side with the oils from your hair being reapplied on your face as you sleep.
Dirty telephones
Holding a telephone on that side of your face especially if you do not clean it often.
Hairstyle and hair care products
Hairstyles and hair care products also contribute if they come in contact with one side of the face.
For treatment I recommend:
Use an anti-acne face wash twice a day
Use a face wash like Clean and Clear Acne Cleanser which contains 10% Benzoly peroxide to wash your face twice a day.
Use an acne moisturizer in the morning
Apply an oil-free moisturizer that contains ingredients like salicylic acid to your face after washing it in the morning. A good example is Clean and Clear Oil Free Moisturizer.
Apply a retinoid at night
Consult your nearest doctor and get a prescription of a retinoid like tretinoin (Retin-A) or adaplene (Differin) that you can apply to your face at night after cleansing.
Take tetracyclines by mouth
Consult your nearest doctor and get a prescription for 2 to 6 months of tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline or minocycline since they reduce inflammation and the population of the bacteria P. acnes.
Adopt an Acne-Free Lifestyle
Adopt an acne-free lifestyle by doing the following:
*Joining a smoking cessation program if you smoke cigarettes
*Cleaning your mobile phone with antiseptic wipes regularly
* Washing your pillowcases regularly
*Keepng your hair and hair care products away from the face
*Eating low glycemic index foods like whole grain bread, spinach, and tomatoes. To learn more read How to Treat Acne at Home.
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