[acne] A big MUST for all acne sufferers and skincare newbies!

Beauty Tips For Body Care
This is a little reminder to all the acne sufferers out there: go get some tests done at the doctor's before you decide to purchase another useless skincare item, that worked magic for X and Y and Z. For the fast 4 years, I was so sure my acne was hormonal: deep painful cysts at the chin/ jaw area, a lot of facial hair, genetic androgen disease. Even my doctors assumed my acne was hormonal just by looking at my face, and just prescribed me oral contraceptives. After 1,5 years on it and no definitive results, I got off the pill and a year later I decided to actually check my hormonal levels. Even this time my doctor wanted to just describe me oral contraceptives again, but I insisted on the test. One week later (today) I find out, that my hormones are perfectly balanced. While being relieved, I realize how dumb I was to just make conclusions just because I have some symptoms. Next on my list is to get a general blood test, allergy tests to some food items and a stool test (to check if there is anything wrong with the intestines/stomach area). Every acne journey is so different, but you might save yourself a lot of time, stress and disappointment if you just run some basic tests before you commit to a new skincare routine or purchase someone elses's HG item. I know it is easier to just diagnose yourself with webmd or by scrolling down this sub for similar acne selfies other than going to an actual doctor. And I am not saying all doctors are so amazing and qualified, but there is still a higher chance you might find a reason for all your painful history of acne vulgaris in a medical test result, rather than online. Use this sub and all the other online sources to educate and inform yourself but not to diagnose. With the help of all the skincare junkies out here last time I went to my derm I knew what I wanted, I asked 20 questions and I immediately made a follow appointment in 2 months. Before that I would just show her my face with makeup on and just get a prescription without knowing how to use it...it would burn my face in a few days and I'd give it up assuming it's an allergy.
Girls Blog 2015
Submitted by traderkrys