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What would you like help with regarding this photo? I can describe the visible skin changes, discuss possible causes, suggest general skin-care steps, or help you decide when to seek an in-person dermatology assessment.
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acne vulgaris AND treatment
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American Academy Dermatology acne self care benzoyl peroxide adapalene guidelines
The photo appears to show mild inflammatory acne, with a few red bumps and healing dark marks around the nose and cheek. There is also some uneven texture that may be from prior acne. I cannot diagnose reliably from one photo.
A simple starting routine:
- Morning: gentle cleanser, then a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide 2.5% to 5% on acne-prone areas, followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer and SPF 30+.
- Night: gentle cleanser, then adapalene 0.1% pea-sized amount over the whole acne-prone area, 2 to 3 nights weekly initially, then increase as tolerated. Moisturize.
- Avoid scrubbing, squeezing lesions, and heavy/oily face products. Results usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Benzoyl peroxide can irritate and bleach fabrics. Adapalene can cause dryness at first and should not be used during pregnancy or when trying to conceive without clinician advice. Current dermatology guidance supports combining a topical retinoid with benzoyl peroxide for acne rather than using antibiotics alone, per the AAD acne guidance.
Arrange a dermatologist visit sooner if lesions are painful/deep, leaving scars, worsening, or not improving after about 3 months. Also have the small dark spot on the cheek checked if it is new or changing in size, border, color, itching, or bleeding.
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