Strangely enough, when you find yourself suffering from acne, reaching out to a stranger may be one of the best things you can do for yourself. That stranger is a dermatologist, a trained skin specialist who has probably seen it all, and who can give you valuable advice about your skin, and prescribe an appropriate



treatment.

If you are thinking about visiting a skin physician for the first time, you are probably feeling apprehensive. This is absolutely normal. After all, you (or your health insurance) are going to pay a stranger to pick and prod at your face. You will be showing off a part of your body that you probably spend most of the time

trying to hide. But the effort and perhaps slight embarrassment is well worth the reward - a new chance at radiant, healthy-looking skin.

When seeking out a specialist, make a list of what you are looking for. What do you like about your family physician? Are you most concerned about someone who is sensitive to your concerns and has good chair-side manner? Are you more worried about having someone with flexible hours who can accommodate your hectic schedule? For some, the most important thing is having a very knowledgeable doctor with reputation and extensive training. Still others seek out dermatologists because they specialize in certain skin conditions.

Whatever your specific needs and interests, a good doctor will treat all his or her patients with respect, patience, sensitivity, and courtesy.

Well-trained professionals will be able to answer all your questions and provide you with several treatment options. Before your first visit, take the time to prepare a list of questions. You should find someone you feel comfortable talking to, and be able to carry out an open dialogue with. If you have any questions about your medication, treatment options, or anything else, don't hesitate to ask. Most like their patients to be prepared and to demonstrate a vested interest in their treatment plan.

If you find your dermatologist difficult to talk to, consider finding a new doctor. You should never feel rushed, ignored, or unable to ask questions. One thing

most patients avoid doing is revealing their anxiety about visiting a dermatologist. It can actually be to your benefit to let your doctor know about your nerves. This can help them become more sensitive to your concerns, and will probably result in a better visit for both of you.

If you have decided to take that important step of finding a good acne skin care expert, here are a few tips for finding the best one in your area. If the cost of treatment is paramount to you, consult your health insurance to see if they cover dermatology, and whether you are restricted to a specific network of physicians and try to make an appointment as early as possible - waiting lists are common.

What are the qualifications of a well-trained dermatologist? They must be a medical doctor that is certified by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and trained in dermatology. Some will have graduated from an accredited medical school, and have completed between three to five years of specialized training. This certification requires that they pass oral examinations and a comprehensive written exam.

Other things to look for - membership in the American Academy of Dermatology. Members receive mandatory continuing education classes, they are peer reviewed, and must remain in continual good standing to remain members.

You should also try to find a skin doctor with experience. The one with many years experience is more apt to make an accurate diagnosis and find appropriate treatment. If you are seeking help for a somewhat rare skin disorder, you will want to find an authority with extensive research and training experience with that disorder.

Also, ask your family doctor or friends for their opinion. Not that it always works, but, you just might find a great Dermatologist that way.