Getting Professional Help

Should I see a dermatologist? It's a valid question that you may very well be asking yourself along with a bunch of others like: Will I outgrow my acne? Is there a medication that will actually clear up my acne? How many over-the-counter medications do I have to try before I can clear my acne? Can I get rid of these painful cysts? Can I avoid scarring? How bad does it have to get before I look for new answers?

Because each person's acne is different, it can be difficult to get the answer that's right for you. That's why a dermatologist can be so helpful. A dermatologist will review your particular form of acne and your daily routine in order to help you find the most effective acne treatment that will also fit in with your lifestyle.

The good news is that there are more acne medications on the market than ever before and that most cases of acne can be treated successfully. The challenge is to figure out what's the best acne-busting plan for you. If you are considering whether or not you should consult with a dermatologist, check out the Should I See A Dermatologist? evaluation.

If you decide that a consultation with a dermatologist is a good idea, we'd like to help you make the most out of it. We've provided tips on Talking to a Dermatologist and a Dermatologist Prep Form that will help you prepare for questions that the dermatologist may ask you. You can fill in the questions and print it out to take with you. And if you need to find a dermatologist in your area, take a look at the Dermatologist Finder.