You did it! You made the decision to see a doctor for your acne and are ready to get rid of it once and for all. It’s exciting! And then you start to get nervous. What is the doctor going to think when he or she sees your skin? Is it going to be the worst he or she has ever seen? What if he/she tells you it can’t be healed? What if he/she wants to do painful procedures to get rid of it? What if he/she laughs at me? Etc… Do not fear. Here is what will more than likely happen and also some advice for you:
1. You need to go to the appointment with a clean and clear face. Don’t wear any makeup or cover-up to hide your acne. I know this sounds horrific but your doctor needs to see what he or she is dealing with. It will benefit you in the long wrong.
2. Bring in the skincare products and cosmetics you have been using.
3. Come prepared. Bring a list of questions you may have for the doctor.
4. When at the appointment, your doctor will ask you when your acne started.
5. He or she will ask if you have any triggers in terms of if your acne flares up due to certain foods you may eat (you may have an allergy causing the acne) or if you’re a female, if you tend to breakout more during your menstrual cycle.
6. The doctor will be loving and kind and if they are not…find another doctor! Your skin condition is personal to you and is affecting your life and feelings, so if you don’t feel safe and comforted by your doctor…NEXT! Your doctor will ask you how you are dealing with your acne. Are you feeling self-conscious? Are you currently battling depression from your acne or feeling low about yourself? This is important to know so your doctor can explain that you are not alone in this struggle. We promise you this.
7. He or she will ask if you have a family history of acne. Acne at times can be hereditary so this is crucial information if you know the answer to this. If not though, it’s ok. You will still be treated well!
8. The doctor will ask you if you have had any previous treatments done and if this is your first visit to a dermatologist. He or she will also ask if you have any allergies that you know of.
9. You and your doctor will decide what the first and best course of treatment is with the knowledge you present your doctor and vice versa. Don’t fret if your skin gets worse before it gets better with treatment. This is common because prescriptions tend to pull all the bacteria to the surface at first, to get rid of it all! Then your skin will start to heal.
10. Be excited! You are on the road to recovery and clear skin!
