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Acne is a scourge that afflicts a lot of people. Everyone hates it, and yet nearly everyone has suffered from it at some point in their lives. More than 40% of all people will have acne or acne scars that need treatment by the time they reach their mid-teens, and almost 85% of all people have acne at some point. It doesn’t have to strike only in puberty, either. Acne can come on in any decade of life. Fortunately, acne treatment is better and more widely available than at any time in the past. How do you know when it’s time to see a dermatologist for your acne treatment?

  • Acne treatment isn’t just for severe acne. For some people, the first barrier to getting good treatment is the belief that only very severe cases merit acne treatment from a professional dermatologist. The truth is nearly anyone suffering from acne could get help with acne from a medical dermatologist. Even for those who have already battled their acne, scar treatment can significantly reduce the unsightliness of acne scars. There are times, however, when it’s not just smart to go to a dermatologist: it’s crucial. Ask yourself the following questions:
    1. Do you feel like you’ve tried everything there is to clear up your acne–all the things people recommended and things that have worked for other people–and nothing has worked for you?

    2. Have you managed to clear your acne only to find new breakouts coming up all the time?

    3. Do you find pimples and acne bumps in places you don’t expect it, like your thighs or back?

    4. Has your acne become more than just unsightly, but also deep and painful?

    5. Have you felt depressed or rejected since you’ve had acne, or have your actively avoided your friends?

    6. Have you started taking any new kind of medication in the last few months, and your breakouts started after that point?

    7. Is your acne clearing up but leaving significant scarring?

If you answered yes to three or more of these questions, then acne is significantly affecting your life. It’s time do see a dermatologist who can help you pinpoint whether your acne is a side effect of some other issues and what you can do to make things better. They can also recommend dietary and lifestyle changes that can work for some people. Whatever is caused your acne, you deserve a shot at clear skin and freedom from the social anxiety that comes from acne. Don’t suffer any longer: book an appointment and see how a dermatologist can help you.