Sweet fairy,
Don't freak.
There are so many differnt products to try. Just tell your dermatologist that what you are using is not working. You are right though, you must be patient. Retin A micro is a cream and might be to rich for your oily skin. Ask your dermatologist for Retin A gel. Ask for samples, too!. Differin is a great alternative to Retin A. Have you tried DUAC gel? Ask your Dr about peels & microdermabrasion. Ask about acutane. The dermatologist I work for (15 years) has used it successfully with her patients for ever. It is not a dangerous alternative. If taken under your dr.s care, you will be safe. did you know that with accutane you have a 70% cure rate. That means that your chance of curing your acne is 70%!
we have injected pimples with kenalog that really keeps them from scaring.
When they are purple like yours, you must really stay out of the sun or else they will scar. Picking them also will make them scar.
Watch what hair products you use. When it gets on your pillow every night, this could be cause a break out. Same with fabric softeners and clothes detergent. Diet is important too. Certain foods can make you break out too.
MD Forte, Neostrata, Neutrogena, cetaphil are excellant face washes.
Stay away from proactive, murad & dermalogica. They don't work.
Good luck

Next time you get a cyst, tell him to wash his hands, put gloves on & inject it with kenalog (cortisone) it will be gone within 24 hours and wont scar.
Too bad you have to see a loser for your skin.