Suggest Treatment For Severe Acne Along With Rosacea And Ice-pick Scars

Posted on Tue, 16 Jun 2015

Question: Over the last almost 5 years I have slowly developed a worsening skin condition that simultaneous mimics rosacea, acne, and an infection. I've even had a biopsy done on it and it has been inconclusive. It started in a small area on each side of my nose on my upper cheek and slowly spread down around my mouth, then along my jawline, then in my temples, and now my entire face except my hairline is covered. My skin is constantly flaky in some areas, yet incredibly oily by the end of the day. Most of the pores are swollen and raised, and though many of them never "pimple out", on a daily basis there are at least a few that look like whiteheads but are just filled with liquid, not pus. I have photos if that would help, I have also tried doxycylin, adapeline gel, and tretinoin gel, oral birth control, benzoyl peroxide prescription facewashes, light moisturizures, sensitive skin soaps, and different makeups or no makeup at all. Some things seem to help for a while, then it plateaus and ceases to be effective. Please help me! My face hurts all the time, it's often itchy and tender, and it's so bumpy and swollen that it's like wearing a horrible mask all the time. Thank you for your time and input.

Answered by Dr. Sankaranantham Murugan (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Avoid irritant applications. Nadoxin application and minocyclin internally.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to HCM.

Thank you for the images; I have looked through them.
You are having severe Acne along with rosacea and ice-pick scars. Your skin already had been insulted with so many drugs.

Are you on any medications for some conditions other than your face problem?
Stop oral birth control pills.

Try Nadifloxacin gel externally along with capsule Minocyclin 100 mg once daily for 2 months. Tablet Metronidazole 400 mg twice daily for a short course of 7-10 days. Please note that these are prescription drugs. You need to consult a doctor/dermatologist for prescription of the same.

You can use a mild antiseptic soap. Consume more than 2 liters of water to avoid constipation along with plenty of fruits, greens and vegetables. Avoid dishes made of ghee, Vanaspathy, Cheese and butter.

You will be better soon. Don't lose hopes.
Get well soon.
Dr S.Murugan

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E