What age should you see a dermatologist for acne?

Author: Hillard Dach  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

A dermatologist should be seen annually and, in some cases, every few months. Many begin seeing a dermatologist around the age of 12. This is around the age you begin to experience acne and possibly warts. A dermatologist can give you treatment options for acne and can help with wart treatments or wart removal.

Should I take my 12 year old to the dermatologist for acne?

For some teens and preteens with mild acne, over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may suffice. But if you don't see any improvement within the first month or two of use, you should consider taking your child to a dermatologist.

At what point should I go to the dermatologist for acne?

A person should see a dermatologist to treat their acne if the condition does not respond to OTC treatment and negatively affects their life. A dermatologist may be able to treat stubborn, severe, or persistent acne with medication and other therapies.

At what age should you start seeing a dermatologist?

That said, it's a good idea to start regularly seeing a dermatologist by age 25. Experts advise scheduling an annual appointment by this age in order to have the best chance of catching any problems early. The primary reason to see a dermatologist by your mid-20s is due to sun exposure.

What does grade 2 acne look like?

grade 1 (mild) – acne is mostly confined to whiteheads and blackheads, with just a few papules and pustules. grade 2 (moderate) – there are multiple papules and pustules, which are mostly confined to the face.

99% Overlook These Effective Acne Treatments – 2024 Guide

What age is acne the worst?

Acne is a common issue for many people, especially for teenagers and young adults in their 20s. Some have mild symptoms, while others can have very severe issues. Acne effects around 90% of adolescents with the prime age across all genders being the teenage years of 14-19 years old.

What does stage 1 acne look like?

Stage 1 – Non-Inflammatory Acne

Non-inflammatory acne typically includes periodic breakouts that consist of mainly opened and closed comedones with a few, infrequent papules and pustules. This type of acne mostly impacts the face, rarely spreading to the neck, chest, shoulders, and back.

What not to say to a dermatologist?

Here are some common lies that people tell their dermatologists that you really shouldn't.
  • #1. “I Wear Sunscreen Everyday.” Sunscreen can be tricky. ...
  • #3. “I've Had This Mole Forever.” ...
  • #5. “I Wash My Face Every Day.” ...
  • #8. “I'm Not On Any Medications/Don't Take Any Supplements.”

When to get a pimple checked out?

The area around the pimple may be very sore, red or inflamed. You may also develop a fever. You can treat mildly infected pimples at home using a warm compress and topical creams. But if the pain or swelling is severe, or if the infected pimple is near your eye, see your healthcare provider.

Can I go straight to a dermatologist?

Getting a referral from your primary care physician might be as simple as a telephone or video consultation. For those who don't have a family doctor, a walk-in center might be able to provide one. Of course, if you pay for your own medical bills then you're free to see a dermatologist without a referral.

How do I tell if my acne is hormonal?

Hormonal acne symptoms

These can appear along the jawline, or on the chest and back. The skin will be bumpy, congested, and present with an overall dull appearance. In women, outbreaks may occur during around certain times of the month, such as when the menstrual cycle is due.

How fast can a dermatologist get rid of acne?

With most prescription acne drugs, you may not see results for four to eight weeks. It can take many months or years for your acne to clear up completely. The treatment regimen your doctor recommends depends on your age, the type and severity of your acne, and what you are willing to commit to.

Why is my acne so bad at 13?

Teens get acne because of the hormone changes that come with puberty. If your parents had acne as teens, it's more likely that you will too.

Where does the pus go if you don't pop a pimple?

Your body can gradually break down pus and reabsorb its components. That's why small accumulations of pus (like in a pimple) often don't need treatment.

Can a 13 year old see a dermatologist?

The Right Time for Your Child's First Dermatology Visit

We recommend parents bring their children to their first dermatologist screening between the ages of 12-15.

What does B12 acne look like?

High-dose vitamins B6 and B12 have also been linked to rosacea fulminans, a condition that looks like acne. Rosacea is marked by large red bumps and pustules that typically appear on the nose, chin, and/or cheeks.

Is it better to pop a pimple or wait?

Because popping isn't the way to go, patience is the key. Your pimple will disappear on its own, and by leaving it alone you're less likely to be left with any reminders that it was there. To dry a pimple up faster, apply 5% benzoyl peroxide gel or cream once or twice a day.

Is a dermatologist worth it for acne?

If your breakouts leave you with acne scars or dark spots, a dermatologist can help you control them before your skin becomes more permanently damaged. While a dermatologist can improve acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, you will benefit more from preventing them from happening.

Should I wear a bra to the dermatologist?

Get undressed to your comfort level. I often ask patients to leave their underwear on but remove their bra if they are unsure of their comfort level. My first question for patients is often "do you have any concerns?" Don't hesitate to bring up any moles or spots that are new, changing, bleeding or hurting.

Should I shave my pubes before a dermatologist?

No, you don't need to shave or wax. However, if there's something going on with your skin, shaving or waxing will make it easier for your physician to evaluate the area.

How bad does your skin have to be to see a dermatologist?

You certainly should consider visiting a dermatologist if you've noticed any of the symptoms below, and should make an appointment sooner rather than later: An unusual mole or skin growth that's changed size, shape, or color. A mole that's painful, itchy, or bleeding. Persistent breakouts, redness, dryness, or ...

Does toothpaste help pimples?

Putting toothpaste on a pimple won't help it go away faster. Toothpaste is an acne remedy that has no evidence to support it. It may even cause problems such as skin irritation and over drying.

What is type 4 acne?

Grade 2: Inflammatory lesions present as a small papule with erythema. Grade 3: Pustules. Grade 4: Many pustules coalesce to form nodules and cysts called nodulocystic acne.

How to get rid of acne permanently?

Isotretinoin: This is a potent medicine that attacks all four causes of acne—bacteria, clogged pores, excess oil, and inflammation (redness and swelling). About 85% of patients see permanent clearing after one course of isotretinoin.

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