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Should I see a Dermatologist for Acne Treatment
There are many types of acne treatments on the market. So many, in fact, that you might be wondering how to decide which acne treatment is the right one for you. Some common types of topical treatments include: alcohol based solutions, creams, foams, gels, lotions, and ointments. Some acne treatments are available over the counter and some are available by prescription.
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.
Treatment Methods
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:
Retin A: This prescription medication is derived from Vitamin A and applied topically. Retin A is highly effective and can be used for extended periods of time. However, it does thin the skin so be sure to use proper sun protection at all times.
Oral Antibiotics: Oral medication may be useful in clearing some types of acne by reducing the amount of bacteria in the skin.
A dermatologist may also be willing to provide intralesional corticosteroid therapy. This is used for one or two cysts. The cysts are injected with a cortisone solution and they will quickly disappear.
Dermatologist treatments are going to be the best solution to an acne problem. It can be hard to handle the situation yourself with over the counter treatments. Acne can be difficult t clear up on your own without having side effects from OTC medications that just make things worse. For treatments acne can not fight you should see your dermatologist.
