Feeling Self Concious

[feelingunfortunate]

I am a 42 year old female who has already experienced menopause due to chemotherapy when I was younger. My skin is awful! I have discoloration, large pores, and acne like a teenager! I have avoided going to a dermatologist, but really would like improve my appearance. Family doctor gave me a low does antibiotic to take when I have bad breakouts, but I really hate taking meds all the time. I have tried several different cleaning products, but none seem to help and NOTHING helps the premature discoloration. Suggestions??????

[Angebelle]

I appreciate the antibiotics, but they haven't done much for me either.  But have you tried low percentage retin-a cream?  This may be a solution for you.  Applied at night, the thin layer of cream can do wonders in a matter of weeks, and over several months, there's a big improvement.  I've used it as an acne treatment, and my 50+ age mother uses it for acne, wrinkles, and overall skin appearance.  She looks fabulous for her age!  The catch - you'll need to see a dermatologist for the prescription and avoid the sun/use sunscreen.  

Otherwise, there's always licensed aestheticians at some really good spas that can provide a series of light chemical peels, microdermabrasions, and complexion improvement extractions.  If you find a spa that uses skinceuticals, epicuren, or other high-end product, its worth the money.

Plenty of water, good moisturizers, and vitamins/supplements are excellent to include with any of the above, too.  Good luck!!    

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
At this age such breakouts are due to adult onset acne. Just keep you face clean by washing with a mild soap atleast twice a day. Pat it dry and do not rub it. Avoid picking or pressing the acne. You can also use Benzoyl peroxide 5% lotion or gel once at bedtime. An amount of lotion the size of a pea should be enough to cover most of your face. If your skin becomes red or peels, you are using too much of the medicine or applying it too often. If the symptoms persist then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist and get topical antibiotics like Clindamycin prescribed.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.