Verbatim response from Perplexity
If drugstore acne products are not fixing your adult acne, the next step is to see a dermatologist rather than cycling through more over-the-counter products. Large, painful, deep pimples, acne that scars, or acne that has not improved after several weeks to a few months of consistent OTC use should be evaluated professionally.[3][6]
A dermatologist can match treatment to the type of acne you have and may prescribe:
- Topical retinoids such as tretinoin or adapalene to unclog pores and speed cell turnover.[2][4][7]
- Benzoyl peroxide or topical antibiotics like clindamycin, usually paired with benzoyl peroxide to reduce resistance.[2][7]
- Oral antibiotics for more inflammatory acne.[2][6][7]
- Hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or spironolactone if breakouts are hormonally driven.[2][7][8]
- Isotretinoin for severe, persistent, or scarring acne that has not responded to other treatments.[2][7]
While you wait for an appointment, keep your routine simple:
- Use a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturizer.[1][7]
- Use one active acne treatment at a time and give it 6 to 8 weeks to work.[3]
- Avoid picking, harsh scrubs, and over-layering strong actives, which can worsen irritation.[1][7]
If you want a practical OTC option to try before or alongside a visit, dermatology sources most often recommend adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, and sometimes salicylic acid or azelaic acid for mild-to-moderate acne, but persistent adult acne often needs prescription treatment.[1][3][5][7]
If you tell me whether your acne is mostly deep painful bumps, whiteheads/blackheads, jawline flares, or scarring, I can help you narrow down the most likely next treatment to ask a dermatologist about.