Skin care for cystic acne?

Wellness
#1

Hi!
I figured I would post this on here since I didn’t begin having skin issues (cystic acne) until early sobriety… well, I didn’t start caring about the health of my skin until entering sobriety!

I know I had acne dueing my addiction, I didnt care at that time to care for well being, let alone skin care…
I use a face toner, retionol serum, and moisturizer… I apply this acne astringent on troubling areas, but I do not have much luck with certain spots.

I have tried acne face wash as well. It will work for a bit then I have to switch to something different.
I can not really afford to continue buying different products. I recently just bought pimple patches again, i didn’t have any luck with a a different brand…
I am open to suggestions of what could help, skin care routines ect..

Skin care and hygiene routines have been a HUGE staple in my recovery from addiction and mental wellness. That is why I figured it would be appropriate to make a post about this.

Any feed back would be great! Thanks!

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#2

You can try over the counter PanOxyl (cleanser but leave on your face for 2-5 min). But I suggest if you can go to your doctor and ask for BenzaClin, that was effective for me. You can also look into prescription retinals like Tretinoin. Do your research on the prescription ones and see which one you think suits best for your condition. Skin care has also been a big part of my recovery journey, I wish you the best of luck! (I’ve also heard countless times that pimple patches don’t work so don’t waste your money!)

1 Like
#3

Thank you so much for the advice! Do you have an idea if certain prescriptions are covered by insurance? Do you see a “regular” doctor for prescriptions for hormonal acne ect? I’m thinking that could be a part of my problem too..

If these questions are to invasive feel free not to answer them!

I would have to look into my specific insurance to see what is covered.

I was always under the impression that dermatology isn’t covered by any insurance… I’ve never really looked into that before though!

#4

BenzaClin was covered for me but not Tretinoin (approx $34 CAD). BenzaClin is part antibiotic and specifically for acne so it’d make sense for it to be covered whereas Tretinoin (and other prescription retinals) are for acne and has anti-aging side effects ie reducing fine lines.
I went to my GP/family doctor but I’d imagine these prescriptions and reasons for wanting them are simple enough to go to a walk-in.
Side note, if you’re using prescription strength retinals you are not to be or get pregnant while you’re doing the treatment (double check though). There is also a product called Accutane which is hard core, but again look into it.
BenzaClin had the fastest results for me and is probably the safest bet.