Dermatologists help care for your skin and scalp health. While they offer important skin cancer screenings, they also offer more cosmetic services, like treatments for acne. If you would like to know more about acne treatments, keep reading to learn how a dermatologist can help. 

Medications

Medications are a great way to fight many forms of acne. Retinoids are some of the best ways to fight moderate acne by helping to prevent blocked hair follicles. Other topical solutions include azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and dapsone.

In many cases, you can take antibiotics to help fight the bacteria causing your acne. Depending on your needs and type of acne, your dermatologist may provide topical or oral antibiotics. You may also take antibiotics in conjunction with other medications like benzoyl peroxide.

Your dermatologist may also recommend a chemical peel. During a chemical peel, the dermatologist uses a powerful chemical solution of salicylic, glycolic, or retinoic acid, but it only works on mild acne. It works by helping to unclog pores and remove the top layer of skin to leave it smoother and younger-looking.

Drainage/Extraction

Some acne is stubborn and best removed with professional extraction. Whiteheads and blackheads may not respond well to other treatments, but your dermatologist can extract the clog to clear the pores with minimal damage. Attempting to extract blackheads and whiteheads on your own could lead to pushing the sebum further into the pour, damaging the skin, or tearing and bruising.

Similarly, if cystic acne doesn't respond to treatment, the dermatologist can drain the pus and bacteria. This may also be a good idea for particularly large and/or painful cysts.

Lasers

Some lasers can help treat acne, but there are lots of different types of laser and light therapies to consider, and you may need multiple treatments, especially if you have multiple types of acne. Types of laser and light treatments for acne include infrared light, photodynamic therapy, and photopneumatic therapy. In addition, lasers can be used to help treat acne scars from previous acne outbreaks. Lasers resurface the skin by removing the top layer to give you a refreshed look. One popular treatment for acne scars is microdermabrasion.

If you have acne or acne scars, a dermatologist may be able to help. They offer multiple treatments for many budges and types of acne. If you would like to know more, or if you want to schedule a consultation, contact a dermatologist in your area today.

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