Basically, there is no cure for acne. However, there are many acne treatment products that one can use in order to control acne breakouts. In general, there are three kinds of acne treatment products – topical, systemic and procedural. The choice for an acne treatment program large depends on the severity and the type of the acne problem. Expert dermatologists will have to determine the patient’s acne severity grade before they can provide you with an effective treatment plan.
Classifications of acne cases
There are three classifications used for acne severity. Grade I and Grade II classifications signify mild to moderate acne cases. These acne levels can be treated with over the counter products and prescription drugs.
As for those patients who have Grade III and Grade IV cases (moderately severe to very severe cases of acne), they should be treated by expert dermatologists before trying out acne products. Using the wrong acne treatment product can potentially worsen the skin infection. Applying an acne treatment gel or lotion that is not compatible for your skin type can potentially promote more acne breakouts.
Seeking the help of an esthetician
An esthetician is commonly referred to as a “skin care therapist”. They are experts in treating and beautifying the skin. Contrary to common misconceptions however, they are not medical doctors. They just perform various cosmetic procedures that promote skin beautification – from facials to waxing.
For patients who have Grade I and II levels of acne, they can seek the help of an esthetician. These experts can also provide good advice on skin care and various forms of treatments for acne. They can also perform deep cleansing treatment procedures that can get rid of comedones. Estheticians usually work at spas and skin clinics.
When should you see a Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in the medical science for the skin. He deals with skin diseases and how such should be treated. He can teach you how to take care of your skin and technically, your dermatologists is your best ally in the quest to fight off acne.
Without a doubt, the best time to consult a dermatologist is when you notice that your acne becomes persistent or if acne breakouts spread quickly all over your skin. Cystic acne also demands an expert’s attention.
The dermatologist will analyze your condition and skin type, as well as the severity of your acne problem. In most cases, your treatment plan will include lifestyle changes as well as the application of various topical products. Over the counter topical treatments are creams, lotions, and ointments that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and resorcinol. As for the prescription treatments, they may be made of azelaic acid, topical retinoids, and topical antibiotics.
If topical medications won’t work, systemic acne treatments such as oral antibiotics, isotretinoin, and hormonal treatments can also be used. When topical and systemic treatments fail, procedural treatment such as comedone extractions, light chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Corticosteroid injections, and phototherapy can also be used.
