3 steps in your journey to effective, professional acne treatment

Sometimes, simple changes in makeup and skincare products can make a big difference in the frequency and severity of breakouts. Over-the-counter acne treatments can also be helpful for some people. However, if acne persists despite these measures, you may benefit from the expertise of a specialist in diagnosing and treating this common condition. You are taking the first step to clearer skin by seeking professional care from a “dermatologist near me in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, Virginia.” Here are three more phases in your journey to healthy skin at Braun Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center.

1 – Evaluation

To effectively treat any skin condition, including acne, we must first understand it. During your initial appointment, one of our specialists will evaluate your skin. It is important for us to understand things like the type of acne that is present, as well as its severity. As part of this process, we will also ask you about potential causes of acne or “triggers” for breakouts. Be prepared to discuss:

• Family history.
• Symptoms.
• Your history of acne/how long you have had it.
• Current medications.
• Medications that were recently discontinued.
• Menstrual cycles as relevant/appropriate.

Additionally, tests may be ordered to determine if other conditions or diseases are contributing to your acne. Information gleaned from this visit is used by our specialists to home in on the cause of breakouts.

2 – Managing triggers

As needed, we may recommend an elimination diet to identify dietary triggers, such as dairy products. Our professional evaluation generally zeroes in on “modifiable” triggers relevant to you and your specific situation. When we know what needs to be minimized in your diet or other aspects of your life, you may see real improvements in the severity and frequency of your acne.

3 – Tailored treatment plans

Your dermatologists’ treatment plans will be based on the identified triggers/causes and information derived from your evaluation. Depending on your specific needs, we may recommend:

• A prescription retinoid cream or topical medication – These medications largely reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and decrease the production of sebum/oil to treat acne at its source.
• A personalized skincare routine to reduce future breakouts.
• In-office therapies such as drainage and extraction for certain types of acne, such as painful blackheads and cysts that haven’t cleared up with topical medications.
• Injections of corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation associated with severe acne (such as cysts and nodules).
• Alternatives to current prescription drugs (some medications can lead to or exacerbate acne).
• Hormone therapy to reduce oil production, as hormonal changes are a risk factor.

Start the journey to clearer, healthier skin today. Request your consultation at Braun Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center. Call our office in Alexandria, VA, at 571-449-2555 or our office in Washington, D.C., at 202-816-7557.