Acne is one of the most common problems among teens and adults alike. It comes in many types and can take many forms. The physical and psychological effects can be devastating, especially affecting self-esteem and feelings about one's physical appearance.
While many mild forms of acne can be treated by over-the-counter products, more severe types may require medical attention. It is important to properly care for acne and take the necessary steps to treat and prevent it, but it is also important to know when your acne requires you to see a dermatologist.
The decision to see a doctor about your acne takes into account several things, among them, how you feel about your acne and how it's affecting you, and the medical facts surrounding your acne condition. There are several reasons why it may be a good idea to see a doctor about your acne. For one thing, severe acne may leave permanent scars, and medical treatment may help reduce scarring. Acne scars come in different types, and appear on some people while others do not have them. The type of acne you have, and your skin type, both play an important role in how your acne scars are treated. The best way to prevent acne scars is to prevent acne, so you should find what works for you and stick to it.
In men, scars on the face and neck may make shaving difficult. Shaving can irritate scars, especially larger, more prominent ones, and can further irritate the skin.
If you have cystic acne, a more severe type of acne, painful cysts may need to be drained by a physician. This type of acne usually requires medical attention because of its severity. It can also last for months and cause a good deal of discomfort to sufferers.
Acne can also have negative psychological effects on people. It can cause them to become anxious or depressed, because they are constantly worried about their appearance. They may also fear how others see them, and feel there is no cure for this condition. This happens in adults because many feel their acne should have cleared up after adolescence, or shouldn't have occurred during adulthood. They are often afraid to place themselves in social situations where they might feel inferior, and often shy away from events. A physician can help treat the physical effects, ass well as the psychological ones.
Another reason to see a doctor is that teens who suffer from acne early on can usually expect it to worsen as they get older, and even continue on into adulthood. This can also mean more severe types of acne have formed, and by seeking medical attention, scarring can be prevented earlier on in the course of the condition.
Even if you aren't sure, it can be a good idea to seek medical attention for your acne. Even if prescription medications aren't necessary, a doctor can help you find a treatment that works best for you, and you will be on your way to recovery.