Acne is a common and frustrating problem that people of all ages face. Spots and pimples are usually only temporary, but sometimes skin problems escalate into something more. Large, painful bumps that don’t respond to treatment can impact your physical and mental well-being.
Have you been struggling to get your acne cleared up? Here are 4 signs you may need a professional acne treatment from our dermatology practice here in Houston.
1. Over-the-counter products are falling short.
The skincare aisle is packed with creams, gels, and lotions that promise to clear up acne. If you’re like many people, you’ve probably experimented with a few of these products during past breakouts. Ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and alpha hydroxy acids can be effective for mild to moderate acne, but they aren’t always enough for stubborn or severe cases.
If you’ve been using over-the-counter treatments consistently for months without seeing improvement—or if your acne seems to get worse—this may indicate a deeper issue that requires stronger, dermatologist-prescribed solutions. Prescription medications, such as topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, or hormonal treatments, can target the root causes of acne in ways over-the-counter products can’t.
2. Your acne is cystic and painful.
Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne, often characterized by deep, painful lumps beneath the skin. These cysts form when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, leading to significant inflammation. Unlike typical pimples, cysts don’t come to a head, and attempting to pop them can worsen the infection and increase your risk of scarring.
Treating cystic acne effectively often requires professional intervention. Dermatologists can offer advanced treatments to address specific concerns.to address specific concerns. If you’re dealing with painful, persistent bumps that resist other treatments, don’t wait to seek help—early intervention can make a significant difference.
Take our quiz to find out the best acne treatment for you.
3. You’re breaking out all over your body.
Acne isn’t limited to the face—it can appear anywhere your skin produces oil. Back, chest, and shoulder acne are especially common and can be challenging to treat on your own. Factors such as sweat, friction from clothing, and hormonal imbalances often contribute to these breakouts, making them more stubborn than facial acne.
Body acne also tends to cover larger areas of skin, making over-the-counter spot treatments less practical. If widespread breakouts are keeping you from feeling comfortable in your own skin, professional care can help restore your confidence.
Learn more about body and back acne in our related blog post.
4. You’re developing significant scarring.
Even after acne clears, it can leave behind frustrating reminders in the form of scars. Scarring is especially common after severe or cystic acne, and some skin types are more prone to it than others. These scars can range from shallow depressions (atrophic scars) to raised, thickened areas (hypertrophic scars).
While over-the-counter scar creams may offer slight improvement, professional treatments are far more effective. Dermatologists can recommend advanced options such as laser therapy, chemical peels, dermal fillers, microdermabrasion, or microneedling to fade existing scars and promote smoother skin. If scarring has started to affect your skin’s texture or appearance, addressing it early can prevent it from becoming more prominent over time.
Additional Signs It’s Time to See a Dermatologist
While the four signs above are some of the most common indicators, there are other subtle clues that it might be time to consult a professional:
- Emotional Impact: If acne is causing you to feel self-conscious, anxious, or withdrawn, it’s worth seeking help. Clear skin can boost your confidence and mental well-being.
- Persistence Despite Lifestyle Changes: If you’ve adjusted your diet, skincare routine, or stress levels but still see no improvement, a dermatologist can help uncover underlying factors.
- Reactions to Products: Some over-the-counter treatments can irritate sensitive skin, leading to redness, peeling, or worsening breakouts. A dermatologist can recommend gentler, more effective alternatives.
Addressing these additional signs early can help you regain control over your skin and confidence. Consulting a dermatologist ensures you receive a personalized approach that targets your unique concerns, setting you on the path to clearer, healthier skin.
What to Expect From Professional Acne Treatment
One of the biggest advantages of seeing a dermatologist is having access to a customized treatment plan. Your provider will examine your skin, review your medical history, and discuss any factors that might be contributing to your acne.
Depending on your needs, treatments may include:
- Prescription topical or oral medications to target bacteria, inflammation, or oil production
- Chemical peels to exfoliate dead skin cells and clear clogged pores
- Light-based therapies, such as blue light or laser treatments, to reduce inflammation and bacteria
- Advice on skincare routines and lifestyle adjustments to prevent future breakouts
Professional care is not one-size-fits-all, which means your treatment will be tailored specifically to your skin type and concerns.
Take the Next Step Toward Clear Skin
Trying to treat your own acne can feel a bit overwhelming, and it may be hard to know when to seek help. If you’ve experienced any of these signs and are ready for truly effective acne treatments, our dermatology team in Houston is here to help.
If you would like to learn more about acne treatments and customized skincare plans, call our office today at (713) 791-9966 or request a consultation.
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