Are persistent breakouts making you lose hope in finding a solution? Don’t wait for acne to vanish on its own.
Achieving clear skin is possible for everyone with the right treatment and skincare routine. Discover the insights from certified dermatologists to take control of your acne battle.
What to expect when diagnosing acne?
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases suggests visiting a board-certified dermatologist who offers assurance and personalized guidance [1]. They diagnose acne by examining your breakouts and identifying their type and location on your skin.Â
This assessment informs a tailored treatment plan. Sometimes, what appears as acne could be another skin condition, like hidradenitis suppurativa or perioral dermatitis [2]. A professional diagnosis ensures accurate treatment.
A tailored approach to treating acne
The path to clear skin varies based on acne type, location, previous treatments, age and scarring [3]. Common approaches include:
- Whiteheads and blackheads: Topical acne medications are often prescribed. Options may include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, or salicylic acid. Combining treatments enhances effectiveness.
- Pimples: Mild to moderate pimples respond well to topical medications like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and azelaic acid. Customized combinations address specific needs.
- Hormonal acne: Women may benefit from FDA-approved acne treatments like birth control pills, patches, and other medications.
- Acne nodules and cysts: Deep, painful acne requiring intense treatment may involve topical prescriptions, antibiotics, hormonal therapy (for women) or isotretinoin.
A step-by-step guide to boosting acne treatment results
Dermatologists may recommend additional measures for optimal results [4]:
- Laser or light therapy: Combined with other treatments, laser and light devices effectively clear acne.
- Corticosteroid injections: Severe, painful breakouts can be relieved through injection, but this is reserved for extreme cases.
- Healthy diet: Some studies suggest a dietary influence on acne. Investigate research to adjust your diet if needed.
Post-treatment care for clear skin
Don’t skip follow-up appointments once you achieve desired results. Consistency prevents future breakouts. A modified treatment plan might involve alternating application of medications.
Using skincare to prevent acne
Gentle skincare is crucial for maintaining clear skin. Over-cleansing or aggressive methods can irritate acne-prone skin, leading to more breakouts. Prioritize a gentle approach to skincare [5].
In conclusion
Overcoming acne is achievable with the right approach. Dermatologists provide accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, considering your unique situation [6] . Effective treatment, combined with proper skincare and potential complementary therapies, brings you closer to the clear, healthy skin you desire.
[1] https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/acne/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take
[2] https://aadermatology.com/reasons-see-dermatologist/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5749614/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5367867/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279208/
[6] https://www.instyle.com/how-to-get-rid-of-acne-7569562
