No one wants acne. If you are a teenager, however, acne flare-ups can be even more devastating as you try to navigate the turbulent years of adolescence. Fortunately, acne can be eliminated or greatly minimized with the correct treatment, but not all patients respond to the same products and techniques.
While some teens are able to find over-the-counter cleansers and creams that are effective, it is not uncommon to need a dermatologist’s help in acne management. A dermatologist not only brings expansive knowledge in treating acne, but they also have access to modern products, prescriptions and treatment modalities that you can’t get “over the counter.”
If you are overwhelmed and frustrated at trying to treat teenage acne, don’t suffer in silence. Knowing when to see a dermatologist is important, as it can greatly reduce your teen’s angst and embarrassment through adolescence as well as save you from wasting money in trying to find the right products.
Is it time to see a dermatologist about your teenager’s acne? Ask yourself these questions to find out.
Is the acne severe or not clearing with over-the-counter treatments? If you feel that you have tried everything on the pharmacy shelves and are still struggling to see results, it may be time to consider a more powerful and targeted treatment from a skin care specialist with prescription-level access.
Is your teen suffering from side effects or irritation from OTC acne products? It is important that any skin care regime be tailored to the unique needs of your skin. All skin types are different. Unfortunately, OTC products are not customized, and this “cookie-cutter approach” may not be best suited for your child’s complexion. In such cases, a dermatologist needs to address it.
Are you concerned about the long-term expense of ongoing acne products from the drug store? Let’s face it, the cost of skin care products can add up quickly, especially if you are using multiple products or having to explore various creams for their effectiveness. While it may seem like you are saving money by not visiting the dermatologist, this can actually be your most affordable and quickest solution to a clear complexion.
Are you worried about permanent acne scars? Even if you have recently controlled acne breakouts, you may notice unsightly indentions or scars left behind. A dermatologist can offer treatments to lessen the appearance of acne scars, but they can also recommend products that can help prevent scars from forming in the first place.
Are you confident it is acne? There are many skin conditions and irritations that can look like acne to the untrained eye. While most teens know a pimple when they see one, it is also possible that redness, inflammation and sores on the face can be a sign of eczema, rosacea, allergic reactions or other skin conditions. A dermatologist may be the only one who can accurately diagnose your teen’s skin issues as true acne.
Discover Effective Acne Treatment from a Dermatologist
Is it time to surrender your teenager’s acne to a physician who specializes in skin care? At Olansky Dermatology in Atlanta, we are confident we can help acne-ridden skin. Our office offers countless treatments for teenage acne, ranging from prescription cleansers and chemical peels to state-of-the-art Laser Treatment, Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy, and more. Call today to schedule your consult!
