Talking to a Doctor

Even moderate cases of acne can be treated

If you have moderate acne, but haven't discussed it with a doctor, you should consider doing so. Maybe you've tried an acne product but weren't satisfied with the results. There are other options for you to treat your acne effectively, but it is best to discuss with your doctor what specific treatment would be most helpful to you, rather than continuing to use products that you are unsure of or that may be making your acne worse.

You may feel embarrassed or uncertain about seeing a dermatologist. You may even be wondering if your acne warrants a doctor's visit at all. Take our kickstart quiz and find out if you should see a doctor. You can even print out your results to bring with you on your visit.

What type of doctor should I see?

Family doctors, also known as general practitioners, and pediatricians handle overall health, including skin care. Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating skin problems.

It is up to you and your parents to decide which type of doctor to see about your acne. You may find that even after you visit a general practitioner or pediatrician, you still want the opinion of a specialist.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) provides a database that you can search by state, area code, zip code, last name, city, or country to find a dermatologist in your area.

Visit the American Academy of Dermatology site to search for a dermatologist ›

BenzaClin® is an acne product you can get with a doctor's prescription. You should not use BenzaClin® if you are allergic to clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, or the antibiotic lincomycin. If allergy symptoms occur such as swelling or shortness of breath, stop using BenzaClin® and call your doctor immediately. Clindamycin, an ingredient in BenzaClin®, may cause diarrhea. You should not use BenzaClin® if you have a history of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Clindamycin taken orally or through IV has been associated with severe colitis, which may result in death. If you experience severe diarrhea or severe abdominal cramps, stop using BenzaClin® and call your doctor immediately.

BenzaClin® is for topical use only. Do not use with other topical acne products unless directed by your doctor. The most frequently reported side effects in the clinical studies include dry skin, application site reaction, itching, peeling, redness and sunburn.

*Offer good on all BenzaClin® products. This offer is limited to one redemption.

^†Maximum savings up to $65 per redemption.