I have adult acne that drugstore products cannot fix. What should I do?

Sorry it’s been stubborn — adult acne is common and often needs prescription or in‑office care. Here’s a clear plan and specific options to discuss with a clinician.

1. See a dermatologist (or a reputable telederm)

• Why: they can identify the cause (hormonal, inflammatory, medication related, PCOS, etc.), prescribe stronger meds, and offer procedures.
• Telederm options: Curology or Apostrophe — both provide licensed prescribers who can send customized topical prescription combos and are convenient if you can’t get to an office quickly.

1. Prescription medical treatments your dermatologist may recommend (brands and why)

• Topical retinoids: tretinoin (Retin‑A, generic), tazarotene (Tazorac) — normalize skin cell turnover, prevent clogged pores.
• Combination topical: Epiduo (adapalene + benzoyl peroxide) — good for inflammatory and comedonal acne; often stronger than drugstore versions.
• Topical dapsone: Aczone — useful for inflammatory acne, especially on the face.
• Oral antibiotics: doxycycline or minocycline (Minocin) — for moderate inflammatory acne while other treatments take effect.
• Hormonal treatments (for people who menstruate): combined oral contraceptives with anti‑androgenic progestins (e.g., Yaz, Ortho Tri‑Cyclen) or spironolactone (Aldactone) — effective for hormonal acne.
• Isotretinoin (Accutane is the common name; current brands include Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis) — for severe, scarring, or treatment‑resistant acne; highly effective but requires careful monitoring and pregnancy prevention.

1. In‑office procedures that can speed improvement

• Cortisone injection for painful cysts (fast relief)
• Chemical peels and light/laser treatments (LED/blue light, fractional lasers) — offered by dermatologists and medical spas; useful as adjuncts.
• Microneedling or laser resurfacing for scarring after active acne controlled.

1. Practical skincare to use while getting treatment

• Gentle cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating or Cetaphil (don’t over‑scrub).
• Non‑comedogenic moisturizer: CeraVe PM or Vanicream.
• Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear — popular for acne‑prone skin because it’s lightweight and non‑comedogenic.
• Avoid layering many active OTC products at once (can irritate and worsen acne). If you haven’t tried a BHA: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA can help mild clogged pores.

1. What to expect and safety notes

• Prescription treatments often take 8–12 weeks to show clear benefit.
• If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy: many acne meds (isotretinoin, spironolactone, some retinoids) are contraindicated — tell your provider.
• Keep a record (photos, what you’ve already tried, menstrual cycle history if applicable) to speed accurate diagnosis.

If you want, tell me:

• Are you female and/or on any birth control?
• Have you tried prescription options before? I can suggest a short list of nearby dermatologists or help you prepare questions/messages for a telederm visit.