Title: Cleared severe acne with BP but now stuck with scars, marks & terrible texture – nothing is working 😭
Hey everyone,
I really need some help because I feel like I’m stuck and things are not improving at all.
I used to have very severe acne, and I managed to control the active breakouts using benzoyl peroxide 5%. That part is mostly under control now, but what I’m left with is honestly just as frustrating.
Now I have:
Dark/red marks (PIH/PIE)
Really bad skin texture
Skin looks uneven and kind of damaged overall
My texture feels very compromised and it honestly looks worse in certain lighting.
For the marks, I tried azelaic acid, and I’m not exaggerating—it didn’t even improve things by 1%. If anything, my skin just looks the same or worse over time.
Another issue: I have oily skin, but a lot of actives just don’t suit me.
Niacinamide → breaks me out
Salicylic acid → also breaks me out
So I feel like I’m running out of options because most recommended ingredients don’t work for me.
Current routine:
Cleanser: Cetaphil
Moisturizer: Deconstruct
Sunscreen: Aqualogica (for oily skin)
Only this is the routine that hasn't given me any new breakouts
I’ve been consistent, but I’m seeing no real improvement in marks or texture, and it’s really affecting my confidence now.
Has anyone dealt with something similar?
What actually helped your acne marks + texture?
Is this something that only treatments/dermatologists can fix?
Am I missing something basic?
I’d really appreciate any advice because this feels like it’s going nowhere.
Thanks in advance 🙏