Why You Should See a Dermatologist to Treat Your Acne – Reference
Acne is a skin condition characterized by bumps, commonly referred to as pimples, zits or cysts, on the skin of the face, chest, or back. While acne is primarily associated with adolescences, many adults suffer from this skin condition as well. The good news is that acne can be successfully treated by a Calabasas Dermatology Center dermatologist.
Visiting the Medical Dermatologist in Calabasas
When visiting your dermatologist, your skin will be examined closely to verify that you are dealing with acne. There are other skin conditions that can resemble acne, so it is important to receive the proper diagnosing before a treatment plan is constructed. Once the dermatologist confirms you have acne, you will be asked questions to better help devise this treatment plan. Some questions you may answer include:
- Do you notice a pattern of when your acne seems to get worse or better
- Do you typically break out when you are near your menstrual cycle?
- How often and when do you wash your face or other affected areas and what products are used?
- What have you tried to combat acne in the past?
Once your dermatologist gets a better understanding of your situation, different treatments will be discussed.
Treating Your Acne with Dermatological Techniques
If your acne is mild, your dermatologist may recommend the use of a cream containing either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, two very effective acne-fighting ingredients. These creams can be in the form of an over-the-counter product or a prescription, based on the dermatologist’s recommendation. You may find that one of these active ingredients works better than the other, so you may have to try both before you discover what works best for you. It is important to only use one at a time, however, so that you do not irritate your skin, which can make your acne worse.
If your acne is more severe, you may be given other medical treatment options, such as antibiotics, retinoids, laser therapy, or a chemical peel. If your acne appears to be hormone-related, a prescription for birth control pills may be advised to correct any hormone imbalance that may be contributing to your skin condition.
Since every person’s skin is unique, it may take more than one try to clear up your acne. At Calabasas Dermatologist Center, we are confident that we can help you clear up your acne once and for all. Call us to schedule your appointment today!