[Acne] Seeing a derm for the first time, any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
After a year of experimenting with products, dealing with fluctuating acne and damaging my skin barrier, I’ve finally booked a dermatologist appointment. I’m honestly struggling so much with my appearance at the moment to the extent that I hardly leave the house anymore, always wear makeup even though I hate it and don’t really enjoy the things I used to. I have so much of my hope hinging on this appointment. Looking for any advice about how to get the most out of the appointment and anyone’s experiences that might be helpful!
Also I have a few questions:
- Is it likely that I will receive a treatment plan straight away, or will I have to come back for that? (It’s so expensive and I can’t bear to deal with my skin anymore so I’m hoping they’ll get me started on something straight away)
- do dermatologists tend to give advice on skincare? I’m worried I won’t be able to treat my acne yet given that (at least I think) I have a damaged barrier, but I’m breaking out way more than normal (like everyday something new pops up) and I’m scared of the PIE and scarring being left behind. I feel like the breakouts will settle when my barrier is healed (I’ve only been off actives for three weeks now) but I really want something to manage my acne in the meantime.
- is there a chance I’ve damaged my skin beyond being able to use Tret/retinoids again? My skin got so clear when I used Tret properly for the first time and I want to get back there so bad but I’m worried that i won’t be able to for a really long time/ever and that my barrier won’t be able to repair on its own (maybe catastrophizing?)
- how will a derm be able to prescribe me the right thing given that there’s only such a short appointment to discuss my acne history, what products I’ve found that work/don’t work on my skin, how it has reached its current state etc? I’m worried I’ll be prescribed the wrong thing and it’ll only get worse, especially seeing as my acne atm is largely due to misuse of products/use of wrong products for my skin type and not (at least not mostly) hormonal issues which might be more easily explained.
I would really appreciate any advice anyone has to offer or stories about your own experiences! At the moment I’m finding it so hard to believe that I’ll ever get back to clear skin but I’m trying so hard to hold out hope that one day I’ll heal and not feel anxious to go outside anymore.