Hi,

If you suffer from acne that affects your forehead then it's a really good idea to keep your hair out of your face, as you are doing. This prevents your hair's natural oils and any hair care products you may be using, such as pomades or hairsprays, from blocking your skin pores and triggering or worsening acne.

Salicylic acid is a good over-the-counter treatment for acne. Since it doesn't seem to be clearing your acne sufficiently, I suggest that you consult a board certified dermatologist at this stage for some stronger treatment options. Prescription creams and gels are helpful if your acne mostly consists of blackheads and whoteheads with a few red bumps or pustules. Topical treatments that I find helpful for my patients include Tretin-X (a kit comprising the prescription vitamin A derivative, tretinoin, in cream or gel form plus an antioxidant cleanser and moisturizer)and Ziana gel (a combination on the antibiotic, clindamycin, with tretinoin). If you have more profuse red bumps and pustules then your dermatologist may also recommend an antibiotic by mouth. Antibiotics that are used for acne include Solodyn, which is an extended release minocycline and the only oral antibiotic actually FDA-approved for acne; and Minocin PAC (minocycline capsules in a kit with antioxidant cleansing wipes, facial serum and face masque).

Facials are also very helpful if you have a lot of blackheads and whiteheads. If possible, get your facials from a medical aesthetician in a dermatologist's office rather than in a spa or beauty parlor. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels can dramatically clear acne and scarring. I find that DermaSweep, a new crystal-free micodermabrasion that infuses your skin with individualized acne therapy, and the Vitalize and Illuminize chemical peels give excellent results in my patients.

Good luck!

Dr. Hema