currently EXTREMELY confused by my skin… for context, I get bad a painful cyst or two once a month (hormonal) & I have had my fair share of perioral dermatitis, exacerbated by the very dry weather where I live. I do pick my skin rather excessively (i know, i know). I never break out particularly bad but something is going very sideways and while it could very well be a consequence of my own actions, I’ve always picked my skin and never ever has it looked like this.

even more context: as of a few months ago I am noticing hardened keratin plugs on my scalp, which hurt but then pop… then scab. I started t sal shampoo every other wash & tea tree spray but still nothing seems to fix it :(

I switched my routine this week and would love some expert insight IDing what may be causing this flare up (particularly on my cheek, as I have closed comedones there but never get acne on cheeks otherwise).

Previous routine: CeraVe SA cleanser (way too harsh), the ordinary glycolic acid sometimes, good molecules brightening serum, cerave night cream / black seed oil if chin breakouts, hero rescue balm

New: medicube zero foam cleanser, azelaic acid, beauty of joseon dynasty cream… plus my godsend, hero rescue balm

FYI- no changes to diet etc… i’ve genuinely tried everything under the sun (spironolactone, tret, etc… but i feel like nothing works… MEEP) & hence the confusion… any advice is warmly appreciated :)

[Routine Help] Perioral Dermatitis flare up & possible skin purging?