When You Should Visit a Dermatologist for Acne Treatment

Acne is a common skin condition, affecting over 80% of teens. In your adulthood, you can also, at some point, get acne. On average, 50% of women and 25% of men get acne in adulthood. It is just an acne breakout; it will go away on its own. While this holds in mild to moderate acne cases with measures like drugstore products such as gels, cleansers, and creams, it does not always work. You might benefit more from seeing a dermatologist for Acne Pittsboro help. Among the signs you should see a dermatologist for help with acne includes:
Confidence slump
Acne, especially in a recurring state, can take a toll on your self-esteem. Coping with the breakouts can be difficult, and if left unattended, it leads to anxiety and depression. Acne can go beyond the skin, causing emotional, psychological, and social concerns, much like in cases of chronic conditions.
If you are getting upset by the breakouts or realize you are having a hard time maintaining your social activities, like going out with friends, it is best to see a dermatologist. Poor acne treatment can cause stress and anxiety, worsening the breakouts. The dermatologist will help you develop healthier ways to deal with breakouts, ensuring they do not take a toll on your confidence. With professional help, you will manage the breakouts well, helping you maintain good social, emotional, and psychological standing.
Cystic acne
Cystic acne is the most severe type. Besides the unsightly view, it can be painful. It is an inflammatory type characterized by pus-filled and painful pimples beneath the skin. It is caused by dead skin cells and oils clogging the skin pores. Bacteria also get trapped in the pores, leading to inflammation and swelling. The temptation to pop or pick the nodules is high, but this can cause severe scarring and permanent skin damage.
Treating cystic acne the DIY way is hardly productive, a reason to visit a dermatologist. The dermatologist considers your skin type, acne severity, and scarring progression to create a practical treatment approach. The doctor can inject a corticosteroid into the lesions and recommend a prescription and proper skincare regimen to manage cystic acne. Over-the-counter options are not enough to manage cystic acne, especially considering your skin type and acne progression. With the dermatologist’s help, you will find and adopt a better treatment approach, helping you avoid significant scarring and skin damage.
Drugstore products failure
Acne can go away in 4-6 weeks when using products containing peroxide, salicylic acid, and/or benzoyl. If the products fail, it is best to consult a professional. The stubborn acne requires more powerful products. The dermatologist can recommend stronger topical retinoids, helping unclog the pores and manage oily skin. They can also apply oral therapies such as isotretinoin, antibiotics, or birth control prescription. Such approaches can help with deeper spots and help manage hormonal breakouts.
Your skin’s health is essential and goes beyond the smooth and striking looks. Acne can affect the skin’s effectiveness in protecting the internal organs, emphasizing the need to visit a dermatologist for effective treatment and management. Call or visit Sanford Dermatology today for all your acne and skin-related needs.