When Does Acne Need a Dermatologist?
Acne affects everyone differently. Some people may only have acne in their teens, others never have concerns, and some suffer from acne for most of their lives. Even babies can get acne, which can send new parents into a frenzy. As common as acne is, when it causes mental distress or limits one’s quality of life, it is time to seek the help of a professional dermatologist.
Acne can be due to many factors, including genetics, environment, and diet. When an individual feels their acne is negatively affecting their quality of life, it is time to seek the professional guidance of a trained and experienced dermatologist. Skin issues can be addressed, and acne is highly treatable, so nobody should suffer in silence over acne concerns, whether male, female, toddler, teen, adult, or senior.
Adolescent Acne Can Be Successfully Treated
It would surprise most people how often acne is dismissed as “normal” during adolescence. Even if it is more common at this stage of life, some people genuinely have insecurities, and acne makes them self-conscious and limits their social interactions. As if teens do not have enough to be concerned about, we allow them to suffer through severe acne that may pop or bleed while at school. Teens are known to pick, and a teen with postulate acne is a recipe for infection.
The first line of defense for most adolescents is to purchase acne cream or pimple treatments. There are plenty to choose from, which may help alleviate most of the issues. However, in some instances, it is essential to get guidance and suggested treatments for more severe acne concerns. In the following situations, it is best to seek the professional advice of a dermatologist:
- Acne is not responding to simple changes in skincare routines or over-the-counter topicals. A reputable dermatologist can successfully treat acne with cysts and nodules,
- Acne causes mental distress, affects mental health, causes depression or anxiety, and limits social interactions due to insecurities about appearance.
- Acne has resulted in pigment changes or scarring of the skin. Licensed dermatologists have treatments and can tailor a skincare plan to individuals to ensure the greatest lasting results.
The most important thing to know is that acne, including residual scars and pigmentation changes, can be addressed. The best dermatologists don’t want their young clients to suffer and will work to find effective, affordable solutions.
Adult Acne Dermatology Treatments
Acne develops more in women than in men during adulthood, which is due to several factors, including menstrual cycles, pregnancies, and menopause. However, even though acne is more common in women, both men and women may experience severe acne in adulthood and want to have it looked at by a professional dermatologist. In any of the following situations, it is better to make an appointment with an experienced acne dermatologist and get professional guidance to eliminate and treat adult acne.
- Acne appearance adversely affects quality of life by causing anxiety, depression, or stress.
- Acne doesn’t respond to small changes in a daily skincare routine, and over-the-counter treatments are unsuccessful or worsen the condition.
- Cyst or nodule acne is causing discomfort and pain.
- Scarring and skin discolorations cause insecurity and impact a person’s quality of life.
Don’t Let Acne Control You
It is true that most people experience acne in their lifetimes. However, some individuals suffer severe acne or are more sensitive to over-the-counter treatments, which leaves them anxious and insecure. It is vital to know that acne is highly treatable, and there are affordable options available. Instead of suffering or letting your teen or loved one suffer through the pain of dealing with acne, be encouraged to seek out treatments. The best dermatologists work with patients, collecting valuable information that helps them provide targeted and effective treatments. If you see someone you care about suffering from depression caused by embarrassment or insecurity about their appearance due to acne, please get in touch with a reputable dermatologist and get the relief you deserve.
If you have tried all the tips and tricks from social media influencers and YouTube videos with no success, there is hope! Everyone deserves to feel good about how they look, and acne should not be the thing that holds you back from living your best life or having the confidence to be in social situations, go for the job you want, or start a conversation. If you live or work in Atlanta, don’t hesitate to contact Buckhead Dermatology today for an appointment. Dr. Sherrie Straughn has been serving patients throughout Atlanta for over a decade and wants to offer affordable and manageable acne treatments for all her clients. Dr. Straughn has experience working with all skin types, colors, and conditions, and she is dedicated to helping you find an acne solution that works for you.