How Do I Get Rid Of Severe Acne On My Forehead?

Posted on Wed, 18 Jun 2025

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 Answered on

9 hours ago Last reviewed on

Question : Ive been facing severe acne on my foregead, cheeks and jaw area. Its been over a month. They were red to begin with and have now reduced in redness slightly but have not seem to go away

Answered by Dr. Kampana (59 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
As explained below

Detailed Answer:
Hi, welcome to AskaDoctor 24×7 !

When acne is stubborn like this, especially across multiple areas, it's a strong sign you need professional help. Over-the-counter products often aren't enough, and there could be underlying reasons (like hormones) that only a professional can pinpoint.

You can use topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin twice or thrice a day. You can take tab. Doxy 100 mg once a day after food for 5 days.

Your next best step is to visit a dermatologist. Meanwhile, stick to a gentle skincare routine: cleanse twice a day with a mild product, moisturize, and avoid picking absolutely.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Kampana (15 hours later)

Thank you for the suggestion. Do you think it would work if I connected via tele consultation with a dermat and also sent the current pictures?

Also, can you help me understand what could be the issue for this?
I have been regularly cleansing my face twice - using moisturizer and sunscreen - a dermat suggested one.

I do keep my sheet and pillow case clean and fresh regularly.

I have underlying hormonal condition - pcod which was diagnosed 7 years ago but it has been in check eversince and even my cycles are regular.

In terms of the routine - I do have an active lifestyle with activities such as gym, steam and swimming but I immediately take shower and avoide sweat.

Can you possibly help me understand what went wrong and if there is anything I should avoid as a precaution be it in diet, habits or activities?

Answered by Dr. Kampana (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
As explained below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I understand your concern. You can get a teleconsult from a dermatologist. You just need to contact customer care to connect toa doctor call who is a dermatologist.

For your above query even with a great routine, underlying hormonal conditions like PCOD can cause persistent acne. While your cycles are regular, PCOD often involves elevated androgen levels, which can lead to increased sebum (oil) production and inflammation, contributing to breakouts. Your active lifestyle, even with immediate showering, can also play a role as sweat, oil, and bacteria can still mix and clog pores, especially in areas with friction from clothing or equipment. Your dermatologist might need to adjust your treatment to specifically address hormonal or exercise-induced acne.

You can talk about all these concerns with a dermatologist over a doctor call.

I hope this helps. Please feel free to discuss any other concerns.
Regards,

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar