Should I see a Dermatologist for Acne Treatment

Do you have a favorite acne treatment that’s stopped working? Are you unsure what acne treatment to try? Are you astounded by the high price of the newest acne treatments on the market and hesitant to spend the money when you’re not sure if they will work? If you answered yes to any of these questions it might be time to consult a dermatologist.

I Know I Have Acne. So How Can a Dermatologist Help me?

First, a dermatologist can tell you what type of acne you have. This will be important in finding an effective acne treatment. Some of the different types of acne include:

• Acne Vulgaris: this is the most common form of acne. It includes whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pastules. In severe acne vulgaris nodules and cysts are usually present.

• Acne Rosacea: although this is not technically a form of acne, it is often mistaken for acne. It is most common in people over the age of 30. It appears as a red rash on the face. While blackheads are not present, there may be bumps, pimples and other skin blemishes.

• Acne Conglobata: This is the most severe form of acne vulgaris. It can cause severe scarring and damage to the skin. It is most common in males between the ages of 18-30.

• Acne Fulminans: This is the sudden onset of acne conglobata. This type of acne also includes a fever and aching joints. Scarring can be so severe that it is disfiguring.

• Pyoderma Faciale: This type of acne is most common in women ages 20-40. It is a severe, often painful form of acne that occurs on the face.

Next, a dermatologist can perform some procedures during your office visit that can immediately improve your complexion. There are many procedures available including:

• Acne Surgery: This is a simple in office procedure to remove blackheads and whiteheads.

• Mircrodermabrasion: This removes the upper levels of skin to generate new, healthier skin

• Chemical Peels: This removes blackheads and whiteheads and allow new skin growth

Finally, there are a great many medications available to treat acne. A dermatologist may prescribe one of the following types of acne treatment:

• Topical Creams or Lotions: Some of these creams contain Vitamin A, some contain benzoyl peroxide, and some contain antibiotics.

• Oral Antibiotics: Oral medication may be useful in clearing some types of acne by reducing the amount of bacteria in the skin.

• Birth Control Pills: Some birth control pills may help control the level of hormones in the body

Given all of these variables, it is best to consult with your dermatologist to determine the acne treatment that is best for you.