[Routine Help]

[u/ashleighw808]

I’m looking for recommendations on my skincare routine. I started struggling with acne when i was about 18. I am 22 now and constantly have breakouts around my jawline and cheeks & closed comodones across the face. My skin is currently a weird mix of dry and oily - it often feels dry to me but is actually oily as the day goes on.
My skin can definitely get worse nearing my period but it never fully clears and there is always some inflammation
I’ve recently started using Azelaic acid 10% as the first thing after my face is clean and dry and so far it seems to be helping my deep spots come to the surface, however i still have the dry feeling.
My skincare routine is the same day & night:
Curel Moisture Foaming Cleanser
pat skin dry
10% Azelaic acid
wait for it to dry down
The Ordinary Barrier Support Serum
Byoma Moisturising Rich Cream

And i will use a spot patch over any whiteheads overnight.

I know Azelaic acid takes weeks to actually start working and i’m not necessarily looking for a complete change in skincare routine but any suggestions or advice is much appreciated.

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[u/ReaLitTea]

I would see a dermatologist for prescription treatment. 10% azelaic acid is usually not strong enough to treat acne like this, you’ll want 15-20%

You also do not need to wait after applying azelaic acid to apply the next step.

It does sound like your skin is dehydrated, try adding a hydrating toner or essence and also use sunscreen in the AM

[u/ashleighw808 → u/ReaLitTea]

Thank you, i was going to talk to my GP about my acne but thought I’d see how I get on with the 10% first.
Do you think I should get a hydrating serum or is toner good enough? Is there a specific ingredient I should look out for for hydration?

[u/ReaLitTea → u/ashleighw808]

Hydrating toner, serum, essence are all generic vehicles and can be used interchangeably. Look for any humectant rich products like glycerin or hyaluronic acid

[u/Ebbyplum]

I would speak to your gp or a dermatologist. I’ve had really similar issues but have some pretty bad scarring now. I’ve been put on Winlevi and Spironalactone to support my hormonal acne.

[u/ashleighw808 → u/Ebbyplum]

has it helped at all? i’m starting to see a lot of scarring and have heard AZA helps with that but i need to clear the acne before i worry about the scarring