This skin profile describes moderate persistent acne: oily skin with pimples nearly all the time (varying in number), often concentrated on the lower face. It's commonly linked to hormonal imbalances, such as an unsuitable birth control pill, progesterone IUD, or ovarian cysts. Certain medications, like corticosteroids or specific antidepressants, can also trigger it.
Treatment Options: If you're not ready for a dermatologist visit, start with topical treatments including retinoid creams, fruit acids, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotic gels. For more significant discomfort, consult a dermatologist—they may add oral antibiotics like erythromycin, tetracycline, or clindamycin, and adjust your hormonal contraception.
Skincare Routine: Tailor hygiene to your skin's needs. Treated skin often dries out, so opt for gentle cleansers (soaps, dermatological bars, or foaming gels) formulated for dry skin. For hydration, choose products for sensitive or dry skin to enhance medication tolerance. Without antibiotics, use lightweight gels or serums suited to oily skin as needed. Important: Tetracyclines and similar antibiotics increase photosensitivity—apply SPF 50 daily to prevent stains and limit sun exposure.
Proven Products
1. Gentle Cleanser. A pH-balanced formula that cleanses without stripping moisture. Gentle Foaming Gel Without Soap pH5, Académie, €26.40.
2. Multi-Action Gel. A 4-in-1 anti-acne treatment that exfoliates, soothes, and regulates sebum. Purifying Action Gel, Clinique, €32.
3. Sunscreen. High-protection SPF 50+ with a matte finish. Hyseac Fluid SPF 50+, Uriage, €10.20.
4. Hydrating Serum. Lightweight moisture for acne-prone skin. Dermo Purifyer Active Concentrate, Eucerin, €11.10.
5. Pore-Clearing Lotion. Unclogs pores and refreshes the skin. Anti-Blemish Keratolytic Solution, Lierac Prescription, €20.70.
Thanks to Dr. Naïma Midoun, dermatologist.
