Ideas for skincare for acne!!! Please help.

[Russell19]

Hi,

I am 12 weeks pregnant so acne may be down to hormones but I had issues before this. When I was on the pill it seemed more controlled, ever since I stopped taking the pill the acne has got worse!

I was wondering if anyone has any tips or creams that work? I feel my skin problem is not normal red, spotty type acne but it is under the skin and appears in little round white spots which do not go away. They are only on my cheeks. I do have pictures if anyone wants to see.

I have been advised to not use lots of products as it may be damaging the skin but use an exfoliator 2 x a week and cleanse each night with make up remover and toner. It's really getting me down now! Please help!

Effaclar duo by la Roche Posay, available in Boots. I have struggled with adult acne for over 15 yrs, been referred to dermatologists, used loads of prescription medications with varying degrees of success yet this stuff is the best thing I've ever used. It's available in a 3 step kit with a face wash and toner but I found these harsh and ineffective. You can buy it on its own for about £15 but I always stock up when it's on 3 for 2. My skin is now clear and looks better than it's ever looked - I don't need to use it everyday now, but I turn to it whenever I get a breakout and it gets everything under control with in a few days. I know different things work for different people but this has honestly changed my life.

What are the spots like-is it cystic acne?

I got acne roseacea some years ago. I stopped using exfoliators, toners etc. I use Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish hot cloth cleanser. It is brilliant! I don't use anything else but a cheap moisturiser now. My skin isn't perfect, but it's much much better than it was.

I have hormonal cystic acne, Efflucar worked well for a few months, so did the Ordinary, only one that has been consistent is Paula’s Choice.
I exfoliate 2times per week, and use lots of moisturiser, which helps keep my skin supple and prevents my oil glands from going into overdrive. (Except when I am ovulating or due on).
You might balance out after you give birth. Good luck!

I use Medik8 Gentle Cleanse, a new face cloth every day or so (baby muslins are good, also Cheeky Wipes - both purchased new of course). Rose water as a toner to remove traces of the face wash. I just buy it from a decent aromatherapy shop.

I'm just trying out this moisturiser but so far it seems good. Very basic - which is generally good. Unnecessary fragrance etc can cause sensitivity.

Have you had a look at the Fantastic Skincare thread in the S&B section? They totally helped sort my skin out.

Thanks everyone for your ideas, I'll look into them.

@holidayshopping I'll attach a photo. It's hard to explain as the spots aren't red or sore or what I'd call a breakout they're just always there! So annoying

@bovril I'll look, haven't seen it so thanks! Xx

They look more like blocked pores, is your routine make up remover plus toner? Or is there a skin cleanser in there too?.

La Roche posay effaclar duo here too

The three step pack is good

I use Avene Cleanance and it makes a real difference for me.

If ur preg ask doctor for Skinoren (azeliac acid) and ethromycin oral antibiotics. Both pregnancy safe and cleared mine right up. Took around 6 weeks to see an improvement though , you do have to persevere with it.
Have suffered on and off for years. Best thing I’ve used is Differin but it’s a Vitamin A derivative which is classed as ‘unsafe’ for use in pregnancy. Roll on 16 weeks when I can use it again I bloody love it.
Congrats on the pregnancy !!

Effaclar is good for cleansing you should also go and see your gp and get a topical antibiotic (one that you apply to your skin). That will make the most difference.

I would suggest a double cleanse with something like BioDerma followed by Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser. I then had amazing results with Sunday Riley UFO. I find La Roche Posay way too harsh.