Ten Commandments of Acne

1. Thou Shall Not Whine.

Some of the medications may cause irritation and peeling. We will provide you with specific instructions on ways to minimize these side effects. If you have any questions, it is important to call the office before stopping any medication.

2. Thou Shall be Patient.

Acne does not clear up overnight. All treatments require time to reach their full potential. Changes will not be made to an acne regimen for 8 weeks. Do not stop any treatment without calling the office and getting permission to stop it.

3. Thou Will Not Get Better By Smearing Granola on Thy Face.

There are many over-the-counter and old family acne treatments. Do not use anything on your face besides what the doctor has prescribed. Many ingredients will irritate the face or disrupt the regimen you have been given.

4. Thou Shall Not Embark on an Acne Regimen Unless It Is Thy Desire to Do So.

It is only worthwhile to treat someone who truly desires help with their acne. Parents, talk to your child. If he or she does not feel their acne is a problem, then don’t bring them into the office. However, also ask your child how he or she feels about their face even if you, the parent, feel the acne is mild or will pass. To some people, one zit is an acne emergency. This is ok.

5. Thou Shall Use the Medicines I Prescribe.

You have decided to come to an expert to treat the acne on your face. I will prescribe the best medication for the acne that is present. I will not prescribe the cheapest or preferred brand unless it is the best option for your face. If you do as I say, your face will clear.

6. Thou Shall Not Run Out of Medication.

Any medical treatment requires responsibility. Part of this responsibility is not running out of medications. The pharmacy is only a phone call away. If you are running low and have no refills, call the office before the weekend.

7. Thou Shall Not Listen to Infomercials.

These products are great at making unethical doctors very, very rich. If a product is truly spectacular in treating acne, I will use it and promote it in my office.

8. Thou Shall Not Listen to Pharmacists, Friends, or Family Over Me.

I have spent years studying the skin and continue to review the most up-to-date options. I will prescribe only safe medications, and I will inform you of what side effects are to be expected. If any questions develop, I will gladly discuss them, however, I ask that you respect my judgment.

9. Thou Shall Call the Doctor BEFORE Stopping Medications.

If you have concerns about your treatment or any side effects (you may hear a lot in the media about medicine) discuss it with me before stopping the medicine. I will be open and honest in discussing treatments and possible side effects.

10. Thou Shall Get Better If Thou Doest What I Suggest.