Written by - Richa Das
Some people believe that acne is a one-time thing, but it is not true. On the internet, we can see videos and blogs related to acne removal home remedies. In reality, it could work to an extent, but if this becomes a major issue, you need to knock at the door of dermatologists only. We can’t fight something that we don’t know.
In this blog, we will try to give you some strong reasons to visit the doctor and to follow a proper skincare routine. Although, it is true that life becomes busy and taking appointments from the doctor would become the least of your priorities. In the modern world, various other options are available, such as over-the-counter products. Still, skin is the largest body part, and making the right decision is important.
My story:
I have oily skin. Long ago, I suffered from acne vulgaris. That journey was long. Starting from teen acne to adulthood, there was no end. I have met various dermatologists; many of them have prescribed me similar medications. For a long time, I thought that they weren't good enough or their medications didn't work, but later I understood that skin is a very sensitive issue and needs a proper routine, not just a skincare routine, but food habits, daily exercise, etc. also play a vital role. Finally, visiting a doctor, to me, stands out as the right decision.
5 lookouts on why and when to visit a doctor for acne
One of the simple reasons for visiting a doctor is that after the execution of all the home tricks, your skin is still breaking out. Here, we are curating five-strong alerts for you to understand when there is a high chance you need to consult a professional.
- Acne breakouts for the first time
Acne breakouts start when your skin barrier is damaged. The signs of acne breakout are red bumps on the skin, on the face, neck, shoulder, back, and chest. If a person goes for an initial evaluation or consults, the chances of treating acne get higher. 2
- OTC products
Over-the-counter medicine means a person can purchase the product without any restrictions. In simple words, there are many cosmetic brands and skincare brands in the industry that are not prescribed.
Even after using these products, it can make your acne worse or more severe. It also happens because many people are confused about their skin types and purchase the wrong products. They might use some harsh products that would lead to breakouts. In such cases, without any doubt, one should visit a professional and discuss the case.
- Suffering from acne vulgaris
Acne is not just limited to pimples. There are different levels of acne that are divided into three categories. There are mild pimples, such as red bumps or tiny acne. The second one is moderate pimples, viz., papules and pustules. The third is severe pimples known as cysts and nodules.2
Mild pimples can be treated, but moderate and severe pimples cannot be treated by home remedies. It needs intense knowledge to make it work. Still, it is better not to take risks and visit a doctor for a consultation.
- Chronic skin condition
Some chronic skin conditions, such as Rosacea, eczema, keratosis pilaris, ichthyosis, vitiligo, and hives, should be treated with the approval of a dermatologist. OTC products are available on the market, but still, consulting a doctor would be an efficient course of action.
- Anxious, stressed and depressed life
Sometimes, due to heavy work pressure or relationship issues, pain, etc., can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression. It also causes acne breakouts. In such a situation, rather than doing nothing, one should contact a doctor immediately. They will not just prescribe the medicines but also recommend them things that could help in different ways.
Is it good or bad to visit a dermatologist for acne?
Is it bad?
There is a perception among people that visiting doctors would make the case worse. As they find antibiotics and Isoterion would cause more harm to their skin as well as body. One more strong reason is that sometimes the diagnosis given by the derms will result in dryness. That means sebum production gets low, and hydration is lost altogether. This course of action would lead to more acne breakouts.
Is it good?
Certain people are advised to visit derms when they are suffering from moderate to severe acne vulgaris. In the present world, we have cosmetologists with us who can also help those with acne-prone skin types. It is believed that their medication exacerbates the severity of the cases. Instead, with medications, they also prescribed "how to" and "when to use."
In my opinion, such thoughts can occur quickly, but it might be possible that not following the instructions consistently will also lead to acne breakouts, dryness, and skin dehydration. It is never too late to visit a health provider, and it is always a good and right thing to do.
Diagnosis by Dermatologist
There are three types of diagnosis that derms prefer, such as topical, oral, and therapies. Everyone looks for over-the-counter products first, but if they do not produce the desired results, derms are the only option left, whether you like it or not. It’s better to treat acne breakouts than to accept them. 1
Topical Treatment
Topical medicine means medicines that we can use on the outer surface. Such formulations are as follows:
Retinoids:
When a person has moderate acne, retinoids are often a helpful medication. These come in the form of creams, gels, and lotions. Suganda 2%Granactive Retinoid Serum is one powerful product with irritation-free attributes. Granactive is the last substance from the retinol family. It is recommended to use in the evening twice a week as it is an oil-based serum. If you are relying on tretinoin, do not use benzoyl peroxide. 3
The retinoids protect the skin from sun damage and have some anti-ageing properties that make the skin dewy and youthful. 
Antibiotics:
The most reliable formula to win over bacteria that usually clog pores is benzoyl peroxide. For the first few months, your dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan that includes antibiotics and retinoids. The application of it would be antibiotics in the mornings and retinoids in the evenings.
Salicylic acid and Azelaic acid:
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps in reducing dead skin cells, hair follicles, and bacteria that usually clog the pores. It has the properties of an exfoliator. It can be used as a prescribed medicine as well as an OTC product. This formulation comes in products such as face wash, creams, serums, and gels. For oily and combination skin types, BHA exfoliating serum with 2% salicylic acid is preferable, and for dry skin, 5%Mandelic acid serum. 1
Azelaic acid:
Rosacea can be treated with the use of azelaic acid. Its properties help in clearing the bumps, lesions, and swelling caused by rosacea. Rosacea is a disease that can be identified by skin behaviour such as redness and flushing. If it is in gel or foam forms, it provides efficient results. Azelaic acid in the cream form helps in treating pimples and swelling. This acid is also known as a dicarboxylic acid.
Oral diagnosis
- In oral diagnosis, antibiotics are common other than combined oral contraceptives. It is a combination of progestin and estrogen.
- Anti-androgen agents have Aldactone, which is used as a treatment for women and teenage girls.
- Isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and is prescribed for people who have moderate to severe pimples.3
Conclusion
It is secondary to think about whether to visit a doctor for acne or not. The primary challenge is to think wisely about your skin. Home remedies could be useful to an extent, but dermatologists can help you with endless solutions as they have scientific knowledge of all the products. Hence, there is nothing wrong with visiting a doctor if we are not even getting the expected results from our OTC routine.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-to-see-a-dermatologist-about-your-acne-15766