What should I do if I constantly break out with acne on my face?

Sep 14, 2026 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Persistent acne on the face can be managed through daily skincare, physical anti-inflammatory treatments, topical anti-acne medications, oral regulatory drugs, and incision and drainage for abscesses. Acne is associated with excessive sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinization, and bacterial infection; therefore, comprehensive interventions can help reduce inflammation and lower the likelihood of recurrent acne. If large cysts rupture or if severe, persistent facial swelling and pain occur, prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are recommended.

Recurrent acne on the face can be managed through daily skincare, physical anti-inflammatory therapies, topical anti-acne medications, oral regulatory medications, and abscess drainage procedures. Acne is associated with excessive sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinization, and bacterial infection; therefore, a comprehensive, multimodal approach helps reduce inflammation and lower the likelihood of recurrent breakouts. If large cysts rupture or if you experience persistent, severe facial swelling and pain, seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.

1. Daily Skincare: Use gentle cleansers to remove excess facial oil, maintain basic hydration to support and repair the skin barrier, limit intake of sugary and fried foods, adhere to regular sleep schedules, and avoid staying up late—these measures help reduce overactive sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands.

2. Physical Anti-Inflammatory Therapies: Treatments such as red-blue light therapy and chemical peels (e.g., glycolic acid) help alleviate intrafollicular inflammation, unclog obstructed follicular openings, improve oily skin conditions, and accelerate resolution of erythematous and swollen lesions. Multiple sessions are typically required to achieve and consolidate therapeutic benefits.

3. Topical Anti-Acne Medications: Apply appropriate topical formulations directly onto acne lesions to normalize keratinized follicular structures, suppress local bacterial proliferation, and reduce erythema and inflammatory responses. Use consistently and as directed; avoid combining multiple irritating topical agents, which may compromise the skin barrier.

4. Oral Regulatory Medications: For recurrent, widespread inflammatory acne, oral medications may be prescribed under professional guidance to regulate sebum production and suppress systemic inflammatory responses. Monitor your physical condition closely during treatment, and never adjust dosage or discontinue medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

5. Abscess Drainage: For large, deep-seated acne abscesses, incision and drainage may be performed to evacuate accumulated pus, thereby alleviating localized infection. This procedure is suitable for lesions that have already formed an abscess cavity. Postoperatively, proper wound care is essential to minimize scarring.

When outdoors, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent post-acne hyperpigmentation. Avoid manually squeezing any type of acne lesion. Maintain emotional stability, monitor your skin condition continuously, and continue diligent skincare even after inflammation has resolved—to help prevent future acne flare-ups.