Finding A Dermatologist
or Acne Treatment Specialist

Finding a dermatologist or skin specialist that cares and really knows how to treat acne is the fastest, most effective way to get clear skin.

But, partnering with the right specialist is critical to your long-term success.

It's Time To Drop The "Acne Free In Three Days" Gimmicks and Doctors Who Aren't Delivering Consistent Results

And Insist On Getting The Care You Deserve!

Before You Make An Appointment . . .

Did you know that dermatologists don't always specialize in acne?

Over the past 20 years, I’ve helped clients who had almost lost hope because their dermatologist acne treatment just wasn't working for them. Some had been on prescription acne medications for years and still hadn’t gotten clear skin!

Acne is just one aspect of dermatology, and not every doctor makes it their specialty.

ACNE IS COMPLEX

It must be treated quickly and efficiently to minimize physical scarring and long-term self image problems.

Some doctors choose to specialize in cosmetic dermatology and anti-aging treatments, such as botox, injectable fillers, and laser skin rejuvenation. Others focus more on skin, hair and nail disorders, skin cancer, and surgical procedures.

What you really need is an Acne Specialist.


Make Sure Your Dermatologist Doesn't Make
These Mistakes With Your Acne Treatment

Here are some of the top reasons people fail to get clear on their dermatology acne treatment.

Below this list, you'll find some helpful tips for finding a dermatologist and questions you should ask to make sure your doctor will be a good fit for your needs.


1. Poor Doctor-Patient Relationships Cause Mistrust

Some doctors don’t take acne seriously, and others simply don’t know the best ways to treat it when standard medical protocols fail.

Your dermatologist should be your ally and build a caring relationship with you that instills trust and encourages compliance.

If you get the feeling your doctor doesn’t think acne is important or they aren’t listening to your concerns, it’s time to find a specialist who understands the complexities of acne treatment & the toll this condition takes on people who suffer with it.


2. Time Constraints Limit Your Care

This includes the time it takes to get an appointment to the amount of time your dermatologist actually spends with you evaluating your skin, explaining treatment, and conducting follow up.

Medical professionals may only spend a few minutes with you during an office visit. They’re pressured to keep a tight schedule, and this makes it difficult to build a satisfying doctor-patient relationship.

Acne is a time-sensitive condition. The longer you wait to treat it, the more likely you are to have dark spots and long-term scarring. In addition, waiting a month or longer in between office visits can seriously derail your treatment if your prescriptions aren’t working as expected.

You need timely access to your doctor -- from your first evaluation throughout the entire process of getting clear.

Quite often, dermatologists don’t have time to offer this type of care.


3. Communication Is Crucial

Okay, so you went to the dermatologist & got your prescriptions filled .  .  .  Now what?

  • Did your doctor thoroughly explain what was prescribed and how to use it?
  • How long should it take before you start seeing results?
  • What other skin care products should you use or avoid? 
  • What if your skin is freaking out & getting worse?
  • What if antibiotics are making you sick to your stomach?
  • Is there anyone you can talk to between visits to answer questions?
  • Does someone contact you to follow up on your progress?

Most doctors will tell you their biggest challenge when treating acne is patient compliance. But, patients are less likely to follow directions consistently when they have to figure it out on their own.

Sometimes dermatology acne treatments fail because there’s a disconnect between patient and doctor.

Successful treatment requires close communication with your acne specialist. If you're skipping days on your regimen and doing your own thing without consulting your doctor, you probably won't get clear.

Likewise, if you’re not able to ask questions & get timely feedback, you’re less likely to stick with the prescribed regimen and won't get your acne under control.

Finding a dermatologist who communicates with you on a frequent basis is key, especially in the first three to four months of treatment. 


4. Long-Term Antibiotics Are Not The Answer

Dermatologists typically opt for prescription antibiotics and retinoids, even though clinical studies have proven that non-prescription acne treatments are highly effective when used correctly.

When patients don’t respond to these prescriptions after several months, doctors may consider it a case of “severe cystic acne” and suggest isotretinoin (also known as Accutane).

These medical strategies for treating acne have some serious long-term side effects, and NONE of these methods are required for complete acne control.

Finding a dermatologist who treats acne with topical, non-prescription methods is well worth the extra effort!


5. Expensive Laser Treatments Aren't Necessary

LED, IPL, and Laser Treatments are relatively new therapies that dermatologists use to treat acne, however, they have significant drawbacks.

  • Treatments are not "stand alone" therapies -- in other words, they must be combined with other treatments to achieve complete acne control.
  • There is a moderate success rate for treating inflamed acne, but these therapies do little, if anything, for non-inflamed acne such as blackheads, whiteheads, and milia.
  • Treatments target acne bacteria, but they don't address Retention Hyperkeratosis, which is the primary cause of all acne lesions. For this reason, light therapies will be completely ineffective for some patients.
  • LED, IPL, and Laser Treatments can be expensive, especially if they prove ineffective.


6. The "Severe Cystic Acne" Myth

Dermatologists and acne sufferers alike believe that "severe or nodular cystic acne" must be treated medically with strong prescription medications.

This is simply not true.

All types of acne can be controlled without antibiotics, accutane, or other prescription medications -- even the most severe, inflamed, and stubborn cases.


Take Control Of Acne -- Help Is Available

If your dermatologist isn't offering you the kind of treatments that get your skin clearer within three to four months & maintain clear skin long term -- look for an acne specialist who will!

Whatever you do .  .  .  Don't keep waiting & hoping your skin will get better.

YOU don't have to live with acne!



Tips On Finding A Dermatologist

Look for a specialist who doesn't rely on systemic drugs for long-term acne control, and avoid the "trial and error" approach. Treating acne is not a game of "wait and see".

  • Find a dermatologist who specializes in acne skin treatment.
  • Look for a doctor who communicates clearly, respectfully, and in terms you understand. Don’t hesitate to ask for a consultation before your official exam.
  • During your initial visit, explain your symptoms thoroughly so your doctor can determine if, in fact, you have acne rather than some other condition.
  • Explain how and when you break out (for example, are you visiting on a day where your skin is relatively clear, or are your break outs usually worse). Where do they happen? How large are they? How many pustules and non-inflamed bumps do you typically have?
  • Tell your dermatologist if your skin is extremely dry, sensitive or highly reactive, and explain why you feel this is true.
  • Speak honestly about how your symptoms and appearance make you feel (For instance, do you feel angry, insecure or embarrassed? Do you avoid social gatherings?).

Ask These Questions:

  • What can I do to help prevent flare-ups?
  • How can I identify my acne triggers, and how do I avoid those triggers in the future?
  • How soon should I start seeing/feeling results?
  • What are the potential side effects and health risks of my acne treatment? Is this treatment compatible with my current medical condition and prescriptions (if any).
  • What skin care routine do you recommend?

Of course, ask any other questions that come up during your appoinment, and make sure you know who to contact if you have concerns once you've left the office.

Do Your Part

  • Have realistic expectations. Expect improvements in the first four weeks of treatment, but understand that your skin won't get clear overnight.
  • Follow directions consistently. Do not change how you use your treatment products or medications without consulting your doctor.
  • Remember, communication + compliance = success!


Learn More About Your Acne Treatment Options

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