When to stop treatment?

[ben45y]

I've been to about two different dermatologist because of my acne, for some reason they become VERY swollen and red. I had to change my doctor, because the first treatment I had a bad reaction to the pills he prescribed.
My second dermatologist just prescribed me clindoxyl gel. I've been using it for about more than a year now. I should have stopped by after 3 months into the treatment, however I couldn't, and now I feel silly going into his office after all this time lost. My acne isn't as bad as before, although I still have blackheads and rarely do I get those very swollen and red pimples.
Should I stop using the gel? My main concern is that the acne will return as bad as before. I know also that if I stop using it, and I break out, it'll take weeks when I'm back on the gel to start seeing results.
Also, how comes I still have blackheads if I'm using the prescribed gel?

[ben45y]

Thank you for taking time out to answer my question.

I understand your advice is limited to the amount of information I had posted. I know you said 5% of the Benzoyl peroxide gel, but I only had 10%, and so I tried it. I used less of it than the size of a pea, reason being because I only have acne on my forehead (maybe because of my hair?) and on my nose (also the area around my nose). It immediately dried my face, it didn't peel or get red though.
I'll have to buy the 5%, and I'll quit using the 10%. Until then, I will be washing my face with a neutrogena soap I've been washing my face with for years.
Thank you again

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Clindoxyl gel contains topical antibiotic and should be used for the prescribed length of time. 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.

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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.