Adult Acne, I don't think so.

I am a 66yr old female with a skin problem and I need your advise
Have been seeing a local dermatologist for at least 2 yrs. He has diagnosed my condition as adult acne. I have a drawer full of samples that are not doing any good. In the first place my skin is very dry and thin. I thought maybe my harmone level was too high, but I have been off of Prempro for at least a mo,still no relief.
I'm beginning to think my problem is not acne. It starts with a swelling and my pores are clogged, they become very sore, then bleed real easy. I'm to a point of desperation, don't want to leave the house my face looks so bad. This does not seem like acne to me. Please help!!!!!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I don't think so either (acne, that is.)

Clogged pores don't usually bleed unless people pick or scratch them.  Do you?  If so, you should try very hard to avoid doing this.

I think you should either ask your current dermatologis to take a fresh look at the problem, or perhaps solicit another opinion.  It's possible that some of the samples in your closet might do the trick themsleves if you persevere long enough.  I have no doubt that with time and patience, you can be cleared up.

Meantime, though, hide the blemishes if you wish, but don't rub or traumatize them in any way.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff