So, I’ve been to the dermatologist (not for a couple of years) and just was given progressively stronger versions of retinoids. I finally gave up and went back to Differin, since it’s available over the counter and at least I’d have the anti-melanoma effect if not the acne-clearing. So I’m back to benzoyl peroxide. Any other ideas? I have the old person’s dry skin but can’t find a suitable lotion that doesn’t make me break out. Even the Differin does if I use more than a 2mm drop. Anyone find something that works for you?
I’m very confused by your post.
You say you haven’t been to the dermatologist in years because they “just” gave you retinoids, so you gave up and went back to Differin. But Differin is a retinoid. Then you say you’re back to benzoyl peroxide. That’s not what’s in Differin. What are you actually using now, and has it worked for you before?
Did the acne come on the heels of menopause? If so, it sounds like the hormones might be to blame. Not sure if that’s something you’d want to mess with just to clear up your skin, but it’s probably worth a conversation with a dermatologist. I tried every pimple cream out there as a zitty preteen and none of them helped in the slightest. I ended up doing 4 rounds of Accutane. Here’s hoping yours is less stubborn.
Ah, sorry. It was confusing. I use the Differin at night, benzoyl peroxide in the morning. I’ve had some degree of acne since I was a 9 (yes, really) did a round of Accutane 10 years ago. It helped for a few years. I’m not willing to try it again, as I was left with unexpected wrinkles around my mouth and slowed healing, which can be a dose effect.
Gotcha. Well, if the ointments aren’t working, I’d still hit up the derm. There may be other options–spironolactone, laser therapy, steroids, antibiotics-- and they may have some ideas for how to moisturize without causing breakouts.
If the dermatologist says you now have acne rosacea, consider a small daily dose of antibiotic if they suggest it. I tried tubes of incredibly expensive creams from a dermatologist for mine, none of which worked. I gave up and lived with the ugly rosacea until one visit with my family practice doc when she said “do you want to try minocycline?” Several weeks later the acne was gone and only comes back if I get forgetful and don’t refill the prescription.
I use facial oil on my dry, acne-prone skin (I’m not menopausal yet, just unlucky). That doesn’t seem to cause me to break out at all. They range in price from like $10-100, so do some searching to figure out what you’re willing to try. A little bit goes a long way so don’t be too turned off by the idea of a more expensive one.
What brand oil do you use?
Could the cause be something in your diet? At age 40 I finally realized that nuts were causing my acne, particularly almonds and peanuts.
Thanks for this tip! I also have post-menopausal acne and I eat a lot of almonds. Will try to abstain for a bit.
I happen to use the one from Perfectly Posh, Love Me Dew but I didn’t mention it because it’s one of those home sales products (my friend sells it). https://letsposh.com/products/love-me-dew/
There are lots of others out there that have the same ingredients. It’s just a bunch of nut oils.
I have gotten food grade sweet almond oil from Whole Foods (in their body care section) and used that… it was about $10 for a ~6oz bottle. At the rate I use it, a few drops at a time on a damp face, that’s a lifetime supply.
Thanks, I’m appreciating all your input!
Medical advice is better suited to IMHO than GQ. Moved.
Did you fail oral retinoids too? Then talk to your gyn provider about whether systemic estrogens are out of the question or not. Yes, they have some risks, but in properly selected patients they’re relatively safe and effective.
No, Accutane worked for a few years. I’m just not willing to do that again. I was really just looking for suggestions for OTC moisturizers that people have found to work for them.