Acne

When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor if you or your child has acne that is not controlled with over-the-counter washes or gels. Remember that in teenagers, the amount of acne may not be a true gauge of the impact of the problem on a child's life. Even small amounts of acne can be embarrassing and psychologically painful to young people.

On the other hand, if you perceive your child's acne as a problem and he or she does not, be patient. You cannot force him or her to want treatment. As friends mature and there are changes in attitude about acne and acne treatment, your child likely will approach you about seeing a doctor.

Prognosis

Acne almost always can be controlled with medication, although results may not be seen for weeks or months. For example, most medicines that are applied to the skin work within four to eight weeks. Tretinoin may show peak results in three to six months.

Additional Info

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse 1 AMS Circle Bethesda, MD 20892-3675 Phone: (301) 495-4484 Toll-Free: (877) 226-4267 Fax: (301) 718-6366 TTY: (301) 565-2966 http://www.niams.nih.gov/