Why Your Acne Routine Isn’t Working
Although I know a thing or 2 about acne, I don’t bat 1,000. No one does.
But, when I see someone returning' for a follow up visit on their acne and my medical assistant says, “It’s not getting better.”, I start going through different scenarios on my head.
How long has it been?
Typically acne regimens take 4-6 weeks to START working. I do my best to prepare patients for this by saying, “I don’t expect perfection at your first follow up; I expect progress.” …… Progress in being able to wash twice a day and apply the medication consistently.
If you’ve been working on the same routine for 3 months, then I agree that it’s time for a change.
How consistent are you?
Do you crash after a long day at school or work and forget to put on your retinoid at night? Rushing to get dressed in the morning, let alone wash your face?
Exam rooms are like Planet Fitness…judgment free. Be honest! Sadly, acne medications aren’t miracle creams that work when applied once a week. So, instead of adding on more steps to get better results, focus on creating habits that promote consistency.
Keep the medication on your nightstand instead of tucked away in the medicine cabinet.
Perhaps, try putting it on an hour or so BEFORE bed.
Maybe a cleansing wipe, like La RochePosay Effaclar Towelettes, are a better option for the morning routine if time is the issue.
If consistency isn’t the issue, then you’re ready to ramp up the routine.
Could you add onto your routine?
Washing twice a day and applying medications, as directed?
Congratulations. You’re probably ready to add on.
Typically, we like to begin an acne regimen with the most important topical….a RETINOID cream! However, there’s so much more that goes into a complete acne regimen.
Here’s where we consider adding in topical antibiotics, prescription washes, or even medicated wipes,
Are you getting dried out or irritated from your topicals?
YES
Consider switching moisturizers. (I love La RochePosay Toleriane Ultra or Toleriane Double Repair for that extra dry or sensitive skin.)
This would also be a time when we would be OKAY with applying the topical every other, if not every 2 nights, to help with tolerability.
NO
Consider increasing the strength of the topical.
Have your breakouts changed…severity, frequency?
Occasionally, I’ll hear someone say, “My surface pimples are doing better, but now I’m getting deeper, more painful acne.” or “My skin is great 3 weeks out of the month, but, when my period comes, all hell breaks loose.”.
Cystic breakouts unrelated to hormones are a cry for an oral antibiotic. No, I don’t love pushing them on everyone. Yes, they work. I like to tack on a daily probiotic supplement in addition to the antibiotic to ensure the gut flora is healthy!
Hormonal acne is typically more responsive to different topical medications than our traditional, run of the mill, acne. However, deep, painful, period-induced breakouts are generally a candidate for oral contraceptives. Again, never a pusher but always a supporter.
Acne may seem simple from the surface, but, those of you dealing with it know it can be so much more than that. It can be stubborn, and, at times, seem relentless.
Don’t give up. Be patient. Be persistent. There’s something out there for everyone!
-xoxo