When to up the spot treatment

[AvonCallingBarksdale]

DD is 12.5 year 7. She hasn’t started her periods yet but is very developed so am sure it’s imminent. Anyway she’s suffering with her skin - she’s been using a la Roche posay face wash for blemish prone skin and now also has a Vichy one also recommended for oily blemished skin. But the spots are still coming thick and fast on her t-zone. She’s not too bothered and covers with concealer but I’m wondering at what stage the GP would prescribe something. I’m not sure nowadays that it’s something she just has to put up with is it? I was very lucky as a teen and remained pretty much spot free but DH didn’t and remembers having some really vicious cream Any ideas or tips?

Try Paula’s Choice anti redness and anti blemish face wash with a salysillic acid toner and a Retin-A serum on top. That keeps my skin spot free after years of struggling.

If she's not bothered, why are you?

My two DSs have both have had roaccutane prescribed at 14yrs old for severe acne. One is currently on it - and it works. If you go the GP they will firstly offer you prescription topical treatment, plus an antibiotic. Mine were given Lymecycline for 6 months.

None of this worked for them, so they got referred for Roaccutane. Which works, almost 100% (according to the dermatologist) possibly for their type of acne which was cystic acne - but has some side effects - like v dry skin, chapped lips, occasionally mood swings. My sons have not been effected by mood swings. You need blood tests before you take it, but it works like magic.

It's true - there are acne cures now, but they're strictly controlled.

When I was a teen (I'm in my 40s now), I was given dianette (a contraceptive pill) for acne. That worked like magic too - possibly still available for girls (obvs not for my boys!).

LadyGardens and ZebrasAreBras really helpful suggestions, thank you

I would look for a good beautician to get a teen facial and see what they recommend. Also a good mild peeling and mask can reduce problems.

DD blooms just before her period and a good skin routine helps reducing it.

Yes definately take her to the GP. My DD was the same and it eventually affects their confidence, even if you don't think she is bothered she may be quietly self conscious. Best to prevent them getting worse imo as it is then harder to control and you want to prevent any scarring.

My DD is on her 3rd and final type of antibiotic as they don't like to try anymore than that. Nothing has really helped so far but I know they have for others. Our doc said the next step would be the pill. She also has Differin to use topically which seems to be helping a little but only a week in.