Beauty

[carefulshopper]

I have extremely fair skin, and have battled acne since my early teens. I'm 35 now, and still have breakouts.

What keeps me busy with concealer, though, is the marks that the blemishes leave behind. After a blemish is gone, I am left with a dark mark that will be there for months. I feel like they are more noticeable b/c I'm so pale...

I never feel attractive, even after putting on makeup, b/c I feel like the marks on my face are the only thing anyone can see!

My acne isn't severe, but my skin is pretty congested (rough textured, slightly "bumpy", blackheads, enlarged pores). I have some lines as well. My once-oily skin is now normal or combination, depending on the day.

Will using a retinol/retinoid help diminish these dark spots (hyperpigmentation)?

I've been wanting to start using one, but don't know how to choose...help! I'm interested in TSV--the pads seem hit or miss (work great for some, not at all for others), and I'm intruiged by the SPF fluid. I hate putting layers of stuff on my face! I live in southern Louisiana, and "light" is always a good thing in this humidity. I like the idea of an anti-aging treatment, moisturizer, and SPF in one.

I've read reviews on Dr. D's retinol serum, and it seems great as well. I know there's one called Poetry In Lotion (forgot the brand), the Neutrogena one on the Q...I'm sure there are tons out there.

Please help me with recommendations and/or advice!! I don't generally have sensitive skin, if that helps.

TIA!