by KRISTINE ANNE GONZAGA
Acne is one of the many skin problems experienced by people. According to statistics, almost 17 million Americans are affected by acne with 85% of which belonging to the 12-24 years age range. While there are a lot of over-the-counter acne products and skin care lines available today, professional assistance is still necessary for effective treatment of severe acne. A dermatologist can help treat acne better than skin care specialists at spas or skin clinics.
Advantages of enlisting professional help in treating acne
Accurate diagnosis Acne can come in several forms: whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. However, there are also skin conditions that look similar to acne but are totally different. One example is the skin condition called keratosis pilaris that is manifested by tiny bumps much like whiteheads. A dermatologist can tell a patient whether the problem is really acne or just an acne-like condition.
Information Dermatologists take time to discuss patients’ medical history, diet, and other factors which may have contributed to the development of acne. This way, patients get informed on how their skin conditions came to be. As such, they are able to avoid activities that can worsen their acne.
More savings Since a dermatologist can provide patients with a correct and accurate diagnosis, the risks of wasting money on ineffective and inappropriate treatment are eliminated. As such, patients do not have to spend on extra dermatologist visits to correct treatment mistakes.
Types of professional acne treatment Aside from treatments like microdermabrasion, facial, and chemical peel – which can be performed by spa skin care specialists – dermatologists also treat acne using two methods. These are:
Cortisone shots These shots are usually administered by dermatologists for severe cases of cystic acne. Cortisone shots deliver cortisol, a hormone that is found naturally in the body, to help reduce the inflammation of current breakouts.
Hormonal pills Some cases of acne are traced to hormonal imbalances. As such, dermatologists often prescribe the use of contraceptive hormonal pills to correct the hormone levels in the body. Patients can also ask their gynaecologist for oral contraceptives that can help clear skin breakouts.
Given the many benefits of professional skin care assistance, people suffering from acne are advised to find a dermatologist that can work well with them.
Tips on finding a dermatologist for effective acne treatment
1.Ask for referrals and recommendations. When looking for a dermatologist for acne treatment, patients are advised to seek recommendations and referrals from people they know. A general practitioner is one’s best bet when looking for a dermatologist. Alternatively, patients can also ask people who have undergone acne treatment for referrals.
2.Seek a qualified dermatologist. License and certification are important to ensure that a practicing dermatologist is indeed qualified to perform treatments. Patients can look up Board-certified dermatologists on the Internet and ask for referrals from professional skin care associations.
3.Make proximity a priority. Patients are advised to find a practicing dermatologist near their homes. Since acne treatments are usually done in an out-patient basis, it is important to minimize exposure to pollutants and possible irritants. The sun, dust, and micro-particles in the air can irritate skin that had just undergone treatment.
4.Prioritize comfort. While qualified, not all dermatologists are blessed with great bedside manner. Patients must not be afraid to switch to a different dermatologist if their current one does not make them comfortable and is not able to address their acne concerns.
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