Get Answers to the Right Questions
The more you know about acne, the better prepared you are to bring your acne under control—and keep it there. Click on the links below for answers to questions that many teens with acne ask.
Click the plus signs to get the answers!
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What is dermatology?
Dermatology is the science of human skin biology and those diseases and syndromes that can cause changes in the skin.
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What is a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor specializing in skin care. He or she has received extensive training to diagnose and treat skin problems, including acne, and to help keep skin healthy. Dermatologists may have general practices centering on skin care, or they may choose additional training that allows them to specialize in specific dermatologic areas such as surgery or pediatric dermatology.
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What does “board-certified” mean?
Most physicians who are members of the American Academy of Dermatology are board-certified in Dermatology. To become board-certified in Dermatology, a physician must:
• Complete a three-year residency in dermatology
• Pass a two-part test, based on this additional training, administered by the American Board of Dermatology
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Who should see a dermatologist?
Whether you are just beginning to fight acne or seeking a new solution to an old acne problem, even mild acne is a medical condition that can benefit from medical treatment by a dermatologist. If your acne is getting worse even with treatment, it may be a good indication that you need a dermatologist to examine you and recommend a skincare regimen, including a carefully chosen acne treatment.
The way your acne makes you feel may also be a reason to see a dermatologist. Do any of the following statements describe how you’ve been feeling lately?
• Your acne embarrasses you in front of others, and/or
• Your acne makes you shy away from others, and/or
• Your acne makes you feel depressed about your future, and/or
• You are not satisfied with your current acne treatment.
