I'm stepping on my soapbox for this one...
I have had acne for as long as I can remember. I started seeing a fantastic dermatologist right around the age of 15. I've tried every potion and lotion. When I was in college the acne got really bad and I went through two rounds of Accutane. That was torture. But, it cleared it up enough that I didn't need to see my dermatologist anymore. Unfortunately, about two years later the acne came back. I tried to clear it up with my own remedies, did 4 microdermabrasions and 4 chemical peels. That cleared it up for a while too. Inevitably my skin was still bad so I decided to consult the dermatologist again. My dermatologist only works part time and getting into her practice was next to impossible. The wait time was nearly 6 months. For someone who was embarrassed to go outside, 6 months was too long. So, I called another dermatologist on a recommendation.
A year ago I started seeing a new dermatologist who's practice did both dermatology and cosmetic procedures. Every time I had an appointment they would try to up-sell me on items I didn't need. Some I bought, some I just couldn't. After another round of antibiotics last spring the acne had cleared up again and I didn't need to go back for several months. This week I had a recheck appointment. Here's what happened (I'm on the soapbox now)...
So, I went back on birth control about 6 months again so there would be no woopses before Ironman. For most people, the pill clears up any acne problems. Unfortunately, I am not blessed that way, although I do think my skin is passable at this time. My dermatologist yesterday thought otherwise. She wants to put me on yet another antibiotic. Um, excuse me? Don't antibiotics and birth control counteract? I asked her about it and she said not to worry. If I wasn't taking my birth control properly then I would get pregnant anyway. Duh! Then she put me on another topical prescription and recommended to me two more expensive topical solutions including face wash. I mentioned I was already using an acne wash that had 2% salicylic acid but she felt I NEEDED the new face wash. So, I bought it. I brought it home, opened it up, and realized the main ingredient in it was 2% salicylic acid. WTF! That wash cost me over $36 when I was using the exact same thing from the drug store that cost maybe $4. I'm pissed! I really feel like I got taken for a ride. Frankly, as an athlete and someone who's had acne my entire life, right now my face looks pretty good. So, I've decided not to fill the antibiotic prescription and I'm really debating if I'll go back to this dermatologist when my next appointment comes up or if my acne breaks out again.
I bet you're wondering where the question of the day in all of this is? My question in, when was the last time you were taken for a fool and what were the circumstances?
Thursday, February 04, 2010
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7 comments:
I bought a car today. Beat that. :)
Now, e-mail me about the birth control thing. I think we've already talked about this, but I've walked in your shoes and DID find my resolution!!
I have a great dermatologist. I've only ever gone and seen her once, then she does most things by email. She doesn't want me to have to pay to come and see her if I don't have to because offices visits can be expensive. She didn't try to sell my on ANYTHING! I was on antibiotics for about 6 months, things cleared up for the most part. She gave me a discount card for the antibiotic because she knew how expensive it would be. She gave me TONS of samples to help me last for a while and then suggested a few over-the-counter remedies. For the most part, things have really cleared up! So if you are looking to make the switch - I can pass along her information. She really is great!
I'm guessing you may have already tried it, but proactive was my lifesaver. When I started training for my first Ironman I couldn't get rid of the acne. It was all over my face, horibly on my cheaks and starting to scar. I tried everything... then, 1 month after using proactive and viola no more. I've been using it now for 3 years (adding a GOOD day moisturiser & night cream on top). Total cheasy infomercials, but it worked for me!
I had it too. Took antibiotics for years. The only thing that has made it go away: being pregnant. I kid you not. Acne GONE. I might have to stay this way forever.
I have definitely been there Meredith. My derm wanted me to take a course of Accutane about a year ago, but after researching it I felt it was a bit more extreme than I was willing to go. I decided to take the birth control route which did not react well with my body and gave me major anxiety. Finally, Differin worked for me. I think it cost around $100, but I'm still using the same tube! Who would ever guess that acne would be so difficult?!!! I feel your pain sister!
I find that vets tend to take people for fools. Go to a vet and they prescribe medicine for the animal that may not actually be needed sometimes.
I'm so skeptical that I think I actually miss out on some good things sometimes because I'm afraid to give any person trying to sell me something the benefit of the doubt!
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