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I am 19 years old and I have my first appointment with the dermatologist next Wednesday. I've been struggling with acne since I was in the 6th grade and I've had enough of it. I've previously completed one treatment of doxycycline (100mg; 2x daily) in addition with a clindamycin topical every night. It worked to clear up my skin quite a bit, but I don't think the three months was long enough to completely clear it. I had some trouble getting in contact with my doctor, so I just dealt with my skin not being completely clear because it was still much better than it had been. About 3-4 months passed and my acne came back. I've started the same regimen with the doxy again and just finished my second month, but I don't think the doxy is working anymore. I think my acne may be hormonal, as it is mostly along my jaw line and around my mouth area. Now that I'm done with the background, I'd like to know what to ask my dermatologist when I go in for my first visit. I don't think that I want to bother with more antibiotics, because from what I've gathered, doxy is the strongest and doesn't treat hormonal acne anyways. I'm thinking about Spironolactone, but I don't know what's best. I'm just curious as to what most peoples experiences were like during their first dermatologist appointment. I know some derms are really difficult about giving prescriptions, and some just give whatever you ask for. I want to make sure that I know what questions to ask/what the standard procedure is for a new patient so I can ensure that I have the best outcome. I guess this is kind of a weird question, and it's kind of all over the place. I'm just kind of nervous and I really want to feel hopeful about this visit, and know what to ask. Thanks!
Prescription strength topical retinoids! After nearly 20 years of acne (I'm only 27, started having breakouts at age 10), Differin gel is the only product that has ever dramatically improved my skin on a long-term basis. I haven't used it since my early twenties, but I did regularly from age 16-20 and that has thus far been the only period in my life where I had good looking skin. Retinoids are also great for gross pores and anti-aging.
Hey, not sure if anyone is still on this thread...
I also have my first ever derm appointment coming up in 3 days. I'm so excited because like most people, I had a looong wait after initially making the appointment--now it's almost here!!
Even though I've never been to the dermatologist, I had many prescription treatments for acne from my regular doctor who is an allergist and aesthetician. Jao46, I would ask for Bactrim or a generic version of that antibiotic. It is awesome, and I've heard people say it's the next best thing to Accutane. While I was on it, my skin was really clear. BUT you can't stay on it forever, so my skin reverted back to having acne.
When I go to the derm, I plan to lay out all the treatments I've already tried, and maybe the doctor will bring up Accutane. If s/he doesn't, then I'll ask about it. I really hope it's possible for me to get Accutane based on all the treatments I went through with my general doctor for 5 years.
Here's hoping!