📊 First — Identify Your Acne Type
Mild Acne — Blackheads, Whiteheads, Few Pimples
Mostly comedonal (clogged pores) with some mild inflammation. Occasional pimples, generally manageable. Responds well to OTC products. ✅
Moderate Acne — Multiple Pimples, Some Inflamed
Mix of comedonal and inflammatory pimples. Some cysts possible. More widespread across face. Usually treatable with OTC actives but may need professional guidance for stubborn cases. 🟡
Severe Acne — Many Inflamed Lesions, Cysts, Nodules
Large, deep, painful cysts. Widespread inflammation. Leaves scars. Requires prescription treatment from a dermatologist — OTC products alone are insufficient. 🔴
🟢 Treatment Level 1: Mild Acne — OTC Products
Cleanser: salicylic acid face wash (1–2%) once daily. Treatment: niacinamide 10% serum morning and night. Spot treat with 2% salicylic acid gel or benzoyl peroxide 2.5% on active pimples. Moisturiser: lightweight, non-comedogenic. SPF 50 daily.
Timeline: 6–8 weeks of consistent use before significant improvement. Most men see 40–60% improvement in mild acne with this protocol. 📈
🟡 Treatment Level 2: Moderate Acne — Adding Actives
Everything from Level 1, plus: Benzoyl peroxide 2.5–5% as leave-on treatment at night. Retinol (0.025–0.05%) 2–3 nights per week (not same night as BP). AHA exfoliant (glycolic or lactic acid) 1–2x per week for texture and dark spots. Consider seeing a dermatologist if no improvement after 12 weeks. 🧪
🔴 Treatment Level 3: Severe or Cystic Acne — See a Dermatologist
At this level, a dermatologist can offer: prescription topical retinoids (tretinoin — stronger and faster than OTC retinol), oral antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline) for bacterial control, azelaic acid prescription strength (15–20%), and in severe/resistant cases, isotretinoin (Accutane) — a highly effective oral medication. 🏥
⚠️ Things That Make Acne Worse
Over-washing (strips barrier, triggers more oil). Using comedogenic products. Touching face frequently (transfers bacteria). Poor diet (high GI foods, dairy, whey protein). Skipping moisturiser and SPF. Popping pimples aggressively. 🚫
🎯 The Golden Rules
Consistency beats intensity — daily gentle treatment beats occasional aggressive treatment. Address multiple pathways: cleanse pores (SA), regulate oil (niacinamide), kill bacteria (BP), prevent future (SPF plus retinol). Give treatments 8–12 weeks before judging. Escalate to a dermatologist at the right time — severe acne leaves permanent scars if undertreated. 💪