Acne-what happens now?

[Appuskidu]

DD has been seeing the GP for a couple of years-she’s tried topical cream, then cream plus antibiotics which worked amazingly, but then when the antibiotics stopped, it came back. Another course of antibiotics and cream did nothing, a few months of Microgynon and now 3 of Dianette (plus antibiotics and cream). It’s not getting any better which is so odd as the antibiotics cleared it up so amazingly the first time around.

If I can actually ever manage to get another appointment with the GP, where can we go from here?? It’s scarring, she is utterly miserable and it is massively knocking her confidence. She’s nearly 17.

She needs to be referred to a Consultant Dermatologist.

Although some NHS Derms are more helpful than others. ( I was told I'd grow out of it.. )

If Dianette isn't cutting it - worked a treat for me - then Roaccutane is probably the next step. It can be very effective - but can also come with some side effects .

Hiya, as someone who has had acne most of their life I can relate. Normally it’s 2 courses of antibiotics and then if that doesn’t work it’s a referral to a dermatologist who will prescribe accutane. I was offered it but turned it down due to Health reasons. It’s been names as a miracle drug for acne but there is a lot of side effects so I would look a lot into it before you take the risk.

I took roaccutane at the age of 42 and it changed my life. Don't have to hide behind make up, my hair etc. Spots haven't come back. I am so much more confident. I would highly recommend it as I spent so many years struggling. The side effects for me were very dry lips but it was worth it and just bought some very good lip stuff. One of the side effects that people are most worried about is suicidal thoughts but this wasn't the case for me, my mood was vastly improved as confidence improved. The other major side effect is birth defects if taken during pregnancy so if she's going to do it then the sooner the better. My friend had a 6 month course as a teen and his acne hasn't come back 20 years later.