Acne problem? 10 questions you should ask your dermatologist

Have acne that refuses to go? If you are planning to see a skin specialist, make sure you ask them these 10 vital questions.

By: Dr Kiran Lohia | | Updated: September 25, 2014 2:23 pm

Suffering from zits or pimples? Well you are not alone. Nearly 80-90% of all men and women will suffer from pimples at least once in their lifetime. And a visit to the dermatologist is nearly always required to ensure your skin heals. But what questions should you ask? Read on to learn the 10 questions you should ask your dermatologist about your acne as American Dermatologist and Medical Director of Lumiere Dermatology, Dr Kiran Lohia lists these for us.

1 – Are my current skincare products okay?

Typically, your dermatologist should go through your current skincare products, to ensure that none of them are causing your zits. In fact, you should bring them with you so that he or she can see the ingredients for a more accurate evaluation.

2 – What products should I avoid?

Avoid any products that do not say that they are non-comedogenic. Comedogenic means that it clogs pores, so if a product is non-comedogenic, that means a dermatologist has analyzed the contents to give it this certification. Additionally, avoid heavy creams or greasy serums, as this can add to your overall skin oiliness.

3 –Which facials can I get at the salon?

Check with your dermatologist if they are okay with any of those salon facials. Unfortunately, many parlours use an abundance of facial products, none of which are tried and tested for acne. Many in fact can cause those pesky pimples, so you must beware! Furthermore, sometimes facialists can do an overly aggressive extraction, leaving you red, bruised and full of marks. It is vital that you do not allow this as well.

4 – What is causing my acne?

Acne, lesions, or zits, can actually be caused by a multitude of causes. Rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis and even folliculitis can mask themselves as acne vulgaris. So, make sure your dermatologist informs you and treats the underlying cause for your skin issues.

5 – Is my acne problem due to hormonal imbalance?

Often, a common condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, can cause those zits. Ask your doctor about PCOS so he or she can do the requisite testing to make sure it is diagnosed and treated.

6 – What diet should I follow?

Depending on the skin disease that your dermatologist has diagnosed you with, a diet should be recommended so that your internal balance is optimised. Diet adjustments can cause a marked improvement in one’s skin condition! For example, in the case of acne, dairy will often be banned, and in the case of rosacea, spicy foods and alcohol will likely be stopped. So, do check with your dermatologist.

7 – What exercise routine should I follow?

Your doctor should prescribe you with an exercise routine that will help your skin get its optimal beauty back. It may vary from yoga for stress reduction to running for weight loss, but this increase in physical activity can only be positive for your skin and body!

8 – How many times a day should I wash my face?

Very often, people either wash their face too often or too little. Follow your dermatologist’s prescription exactly to ensure you are taking care of your skin the way it needs to be taken care of!

9 – Should I take any vitamin supplements to beat acne?

Certain vitamins have been proven to work in acne conditions, such as omega-3 fatty acids and alpha lipoic acid. Do ask your dermatologist which ones you should take and in what dose.

10 – What lifestyle changes should I make to combat acne?

Very often our lifestyles are to blame when faced with these irritating zits. But, simple changes in our daily lives can help improve our body’s balance. Do ask your dermatologist so you are balanced from head to toe.

Image source: Getty Images

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Published: September 8, 2014 12:30 pm | Updated:September 25, 2014 2:23 pm

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