This is going to be a long explanation but I need to mention everything so I can get some answers. 

To start, I have ALWAYS had super smooth clear skin, rarley ever got a pimple. 

In November 2024, I just wanted to get a hydrating facial as the winter here gets cold and my skin gets dry. I was however convinced to do Microneedling and dermaplaning during the same visit. Many months later I still regret letting myself and the esthetician do that to me. Since then my skin has been terrible. No matter what I have tried I just cant get it back to the smooth blemish free skin it used to be. 

In december I went to see a dermatologist as it was really bad like I started getting cystic acne on my forehead and that had neverrrrr happened to me! However the dermatologist gave me a terrible routine that would've damaged my skin even more. He told me to alternate nights with salicylic acid and glycolic acid, to use a retinol and azaleic acid. I tried that for a few days but you probably guessed it, my skin barrier got so damaged. 

I tried to do a gentle routine like i used to do but the acne just does not stop! and its mostly targeted on my forehead, here and there it will be on the sides of my cheeks by my sideburns. 

In March I went to get a chemical peel done as I thought that would help rejuvenate my skin. It helped for a few days but then the issues came back. 

In May I went to get a hydrafacial done, my skin was glowing for 2 days then back again to my issues. 

It is NEVER ENDING! I dont know what to keep doing and I am SO sad. 

I attached images of how my skin is currently. Breakouts, texture, dry/dull? 

Can someone please help me figure out a routine that will get me back to my clear skin? Please dont say my skin looks fine how it is because it used to be better. I just really want some advice. 

Thank you so much in advance. 

[Routine Help] Skin texture / breakouts