Acne is one of the most prevalent skin conditions in the United States. Typical symptoms of this skin condition include raised lesions, clogged pores, and cysts. While acne Pittsboro can affect anybody, and at any age, it often develops during your teenage years and early 20s. Luckily, most mild acne causes usually heal by themselves, or with good skincare and over-the-counter remedies. However, there are still instances when your acne might be of concern and require the attention of a dermatologist. Here are seven signs that it is time to arrange an appointment.
1. You Have Experienced Your First Acne Breakout
If you have never struggled with acne before, but suddenly experience moderate to severe breakouts, you talk to a dermatologist. Numerous potential causes behind this flare-up include diet changes, bacterial infection, increased stress levels, and hormonal changes. During your consultation, your skin specialist will analyze your health history and lifestyle to identify the underlying cause of your issue and suggest the best treatment.
2. Over-The-Counter Products Are Not Effective
Mild cases of acne are easily treatable with over-the-counter acne products, generally those containing active ingredients like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Nonetheless, it might take months to notice significant outcomes from a product. Therefore, ensure you apply the product regularly and observe for a while. If your acne breakouts are not healing, despite constantly treating them or your acne seems to be worsening, you should consult a dermatologist for professional treatment.
3. You Develop Large Nodules or Deep Cysts
Deep cysts or large nodules are more severe forms of acne and could damage your skin. Besides, these skin concerns are highly prone to scarring even after your breakout clears and are typically more painful and bigger than a simple pimple. For this reason, most over-the-counter products are generally ineffective and not strong enough to correct acne at this stage. Therefore, you should seek immediate acne treatment from a skin specialist or dermatologist to get your acne under control and avoid further inflammation.
4. You Developed Acne After Taking Certain Medication
If your acne breakouts start upon taking certain medications, it is safe to assume that the product can cause your acne. Medications like steroids or birth control pills can cause acne because of changes in hormone levels.
These changes cause potential excess production of sebum, an oily substance that protects your skin, that can clog the skin pores to form acne. Your dermatologist can extensively assess your acne issues and suggest the most appropriate acne treatment solutions.
5. You Notice Scars
Acne scars are shallow skin indentations caused by swelling of the acne blemishes, which then penetrate your skin and damage the underlying tissues. However, unlike acne scarring, or post-acne hyperpigmentation, which generally fades after some months, acne scarring is typically permanent.
Most people consider acne scars aesthetically unappealing and could hugely affect your self-confidence. Therefore, if you notice a potential acne scar, consult a dermatologist for professional treatment.
While acne is prevalent and not life-threatening, it could be painful if it becomes swollen, particularly in serious forms like nodules or cysts. Furthermore, acne can be an early warning sign of underlying health issues like stress, hormonal imbalances, and more. As such, it is important to seek specialist care from a dermatologist should you be worried about your acne issues.
Numerous acne treatment options are available, including over-the-counter and prescription medications like benzoyl peroxide. Your dermatologist can also advise you on the best skin care measures to avoid acne breakouts, like cleaning your face properly, using a moisturizer, not popping pimples, and more.
