I can totally relate to your situation. I had acne since I was 12 and tried everything. i finally got it under control by alternating biweekly acne facials(decongesting facial with tesla current---high frequency current used to kill bacteria so you don't breakout like what usually happens after a facial) and glycolic peels. In between, I used gentle skincare products(Decleor or acne/oily skin products from Glass Onoin/Mirra Fleur---sold at Prickly apple). My acne was under control so I went in for laser treatments to smooth out my skin(had acne scars and pitts from past breakouts). This was a huuuuuuge mistake. I orig wanted to get CO2 laser resurfacing, but the Doctor talked me into the more costly and less invasive Fraxel Laser Treatments!!! It ruined my face!!!! It aggravated my skin and I ended up with the most severe cystic acne breakout ever. It was horrifying. Friends and Family were shocked and could not hold back. I turned into a recluse and did not want to leave the house. The doctor and NP said it was normal and kept making me continue the treatments. It just got worse each time. Finally, I said no way and discontinued treatment. The cystic acne cleared up, but now I am left with horribly scarred skin. I feel very vain and stupid for undergoing Fraxel in the first place. I heard it works well for some people, though, so for those that have had success, congrats, but please be careful if you consider this course of treatment.
Also, on a side note, they tried IPL/Blue light with Levulan to treat the breakouts, but it didn't work. I just used tea tree oil cleanser(from Trader Joes) and Tazorac Gel 0.1%(Px from another derm). This help to clear up remaining stubborn cysts from the Fraxel. I'm now on the Tea Tree cleanser, little bit of Tazorac(it's helping to smooth out and refine those scars while keeping acne at bay) and an Antioxidant serum. I'm going to resume my acne facials and glycolic peels this Friday. I'm sticking to that from now on. lol.
Sorry this was so long.
