Controlling acne isn't always quite as easy as TV commercials make it seem. If you've tried plenty of over-the-counter products and still have pimples, you may benefit from a visit to your Knoxville, TN, dermatologists, Drs. Robert C. Griffith and Robert D. Griffith.

Why drugstore products don't always work

The acne products that line the shelves of Knoxville drug stores can be helpful if you have mild or occasional acne. Unfortunately, these products may not be strong enough to tackle severe or stubborn acne.

It may also be difficult to keep acne under control if you use the wrong products for your skin or irritate your skin by combining too many products.

How a visit to the skin doctor can help you

After examing your skin and asking you a few questions about the products and medications you've tried in the past, your dermatologist will make make a few skincare recommendations and offer a treatment plan.

Your plan may include one or more of these treatments:

• Topical medications: Prescription topical medications are placed directly on your skin and decrease acne by speeding up skin cell turnover and unblocking clogged pores.
• Antibiotics: When topical medications alone aren't enough, your skin doctor may add an antibiotic to your skincare regimen. Some types of antibiotics are applied to your skin while others are swallowed. Antibiotics kill bacteria on your skin, reducing acne lesions.
• Birth Control Pills: If you're a woman, you may notice that your acne tends to get worse during the second part of your menstrual cycle. During this time, hormones trigger your body to produce too much sebum. The oily substance moisturizes your skin but can clog pores. Birth control pills reduce hormonal fluctuations that can cause acne.
• Isotretinoin: This powerful drug can be very effective if you have severe or cystic acne. If you begin taking the medication, you'll receive regular blood tests. Women must use a reliable form of birth control, as isotretinoin can cause birth defects.
• Light Therapy: Light therapy kills bacteria in your oil glands, decreases redness, and prevents new acne lesions.
• Microdermabrasion: During this treatment, a handheld device gently removes the outer layers of the skin, eliminating acne lesions and shallow scars.
• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels also slough off the outer layers of the skin. Your skin will begin to peel just a few days after the solution is applied to your skin.

Would you like clearer skin? Call your dermatologists in Knoxville, TN, Drs. Robert C. and Robert D. Griffith, at (865) 588-1361 to schedule an appointment.