Mild Acne and Oily Skin

Dr. Rockoff

I am a 24 year old male. I have never had bad acne, but generally got 3-5 pimples each month or so. I got more when I was in 7th-10th grade but they never completely went away. However, I grew out a beard and also had a very traumatic thing happen in my life about 6 months ago, and I subsequently broke out with pretty bad acne on my chin and neck. I had about 5-7 places with cystic bumps that took injections to heal. I went to a dermatologist and they gave me an antibiotic for a month and started me on Differin every other night.

The bad acne is gone now. However, I am still getting more spots than I did before and my skin has been much oilier than before. I wash my face with Cetaphil and use my wife's Biore salicylic acid wash every other day. Also, I continue to use Differin (.1%) every other day.

1. Why would my face turn oily all of the sudden at 24? Could this be hormonal since it is increased oil?

2. Is it bad to switch between face washes like I am doing with the Cetaphil and the Biore? I use Cetaphil daily face wash every morning and then use Cetaphil Gentle Face wash on nights I use differin and Biore SA wash on nights I don't use Differin.

Please answer both questions. Any advice would be much appreciated as I didn't think I would have this problem all of a sudden at 24, especially as a guy. Thanks.

[loiloi]

Hi Adam.
Acne is caused by raised levels of, or a particular sensitivity to, the effects of androgens. Androgens are male hormones found in both male and female bodies which stimulate the sebaceous glands. If your body produces more androgens that it needs you will have oily skin. Bacteria on the skin feeds off this excess oil, clogging the pores and resulting in acne.
One month is not a very long time to take antibiotics for acne. They may need to be taken for at least 8-12 weeks or longer. Differin is designed to be used every night, unless your skin is particularly sensitive.
Cleansing alone will not heal acne, and switching between face washes will not be harmful.
Eloise.