Acne is an infection in the skin. It occurs when the pilosebaceous in the skin flare up. These pilosebaceous are composed of an oil gland that is connected to a hair follicle. When there is more activity than usual at the base of the hair follicles, acne rears its ugly head (or heads!) It may do so most commonly on the face, the back, the neck, and the shoulders. However, no area on the body's skin is immune from the pest that is acne.



Typically, people who seek the treatments of dermatologists are those who have moderate to severe acne issues. These issues can be black heads in the skin, white heads, cysts, and pimples. A dermatologist will examine the problem at hand and determine a treatment. Be sure to tell your dermatologist if you pick at your pimples. More than likely, he or she will tell you to avoid doing so, as this will cause scarring. Although you may be tempted to pick them, it is in your best interest to follow all of your dermatologist's orders and suggestions very closely.

When you are attempting to choose a dermatologist, you should keep several things in mind. First of all, you should choose a dermatologist who is in close proximity to where you live. This way, you can be sure that it is not a problem to get to and from the doctor's office when you need to go. Although a more well known dermatologist my be 100 miles from your house, are you really ready to travel that far when you have a flare up? By the time you get there, you may have popped all of your pimples!

Another factor you should consider when choosing a dermatologist is the level of comfortableness you feel when speaking with the doctor. Does the doctor treat you with total respect? Does he or she seem willing to listen to all of your issues and work with you in a way that you are happy with? Does the doctor give you enough attention and time? Does he or she promptly return your calls and answer all of your questions. These are things that may seem simple, but they can make or break your relationship with your doctor - as well as the important treatment that you are receiving. After all, when it comes to your skin, your doctor had better pay close attention and treat you with a great deal of care and concern.

If you are able to develop a good relationship with your dermatologist, your skin treatments should go smoothly. Remember to ask your dermatologist any questions you can think of. A little bit of reasoning can go a far way - especially when it adds to the clarity of your skin and the healthy glow of your face!