Verbatim response from Perplexity
If drugstore acne products aren’t working, the next step is to see a dermatologist or primary care doctor for prescription treatment, especially if your acne is moderate/severe, painful, deep, or scarring.[1][2][3]
What to do next:
- Book a dermatology visit if you have large, painful pimples, deep nodules/cysts, or acne that leaves scars.[1]
- If you can’t get in quickly, see your GP/primary care clinician; guidelines say acne that hasn’t responded to pharmacy treatment often needs prescription medicine.[2][3]
- Don’t keep stacking products every few days. AAD advises trying one product consistently for 6–8 weeks before changing, because frequent switching can irritate skin and make it harder to tell what works.[1]
- Keep your routine simple: gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, remove makeup at night, and avoid picking or squeezing.[4][10][13]
Prescription options a clinician may consider:
- Topical retinoids such as adapalene or tretinoin to unclog pores.[9][14][16]
- Benzoyl peroxide combinations, often paired with a retinoid or antibiotic.[9][15]
- Oral antibiotics for more inflamed moderate-to-severe acne, usually short-term.[7][17][18]
- Hormonal treatments such as spironolactone or certain birth control pills for hormonally driven acne in women.[9][13][14][18]
- Isotretinoin for severe, treatment-resistant acne or acne that is causing scars.[1][17][18]
A practical approach is:
- Stop experimenting, and schedule an evaluation.
- Ask whether your acne looks more hormonal, inflammatory, or cystic, because that changes treatment.
- If you have scarring, painful deep bumps, or emotional distress, mention that explicitly—those are common reasons dermatologists escalate treatment sooner.[1][5][17]
If you want, I can help you build a simple acne routine or suggest what to ask the dermatologist at your visit.