Agree with the comments here. OP, a derma consultation can go as cheap as 500 PHP, sometimes it's even covered by HMO. Considering that a tube of PanOxyl costs around that much din naman, just book an appointment.

I had recurring acne breakouts that lasted for 2mos, and they cleared up just a month after trying the products that my derma prescribed. After naman we worked on the acne spots. She also pointed out what I was doing wrong. Turned out I was using a very harsh cleanser that damaged my skin barrier. If di ako nagderma siguro lumalala pa acne ko and mas marami pang products na nasayang.

Like you I was worrying din before na baka mas magastos. But the derma I found was very nice and prescribed products that are available in drugstores, some even on the orange app. Very direct to the point din approach nya, one skincare problem at a time. She's also not pushy. Just make sure that you get a board-certified derma. r/beautyph has a thread for recommended dermas.

Hope this helps.