Hi.. Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns.. As per your complain Acne Vulgaris or Pimples can occur due to a number of reasons like hormonal imbalances, clogged pores, bacterial infection, inflammation, excess sun exposure, oily skin etc.. In your case it seems like there are clogged pores and bacterial infection.. It is true that you are advised to stop steroid ointments as it has severe side effects and can aggravate the condition.. The darkening of skin seems to be due to post inflammatory hyperigmentation secondary to acne.. You should not use any steroid containing creams and can start a treatment containing antibiotics and non comedogens [anti-acne medicines]. You can wash your face with salicylic acid and glycolic acid containing facewash.. Apply a combination ointment containing benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin or can combine the two ointments and apply twice over face.. You can apply adapelene gel once at night.. Exfolaite your skin twice a week. Do cool compresses over face. Wash your face multiple times a day.. Limit sun exposure. Drink plenty of water and take multivitamins.. You can also go for chemical peeling and microdermabrasion.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards. Dr. Honey Nandwani Arora.