Is there a magic number of appointments for managing acne concerns?

We often get asked how many appointments are required to manage a patient’s acne concerns. And the simple answer is, there’s not a magic number.

Individuals with acne concerns often require several consultations for several reasons. Acne is a complex condition by nature, and every presentation is different, along with the variability in a patient’s experience with a management plan. Here are some key reasons why a series of appointments may be necessary:

There are different types of Acne. It can manifest in various forms such as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, and cysts. Each type may require a different consultation approach. For instance, mild acne concerns might be discussed in the context of topical skincare, while severe cystic acne may warrant a discussion about oral medications (like antibiotics) or a referral to a dermatological specialist.

A combined approach is often explored. We find that discussing a combination of options is often a thorough approach. This can include exploring topical or oral medications, alongside in-clinic consultations such as Advanced Chemical Peels or Skin Laser Consultations.

It takes time to understand and discuss the contributing factors. A comprehensive consultation often involves discussing underlying factors that may contribute to acne, such as hormones, excess oil production, or bacteria. Exploring these factors may require different approaches.

Skin can become sensitive during a management plan. Some products or procedures can cause skin irritation or dryness, especially topical products like exfoliating acids or retinoids. Adjusting the management plan to support the skin while working towards your goals may involve discussing different formulations or adjusting application frequency.

It takes time to manage acne prone skin. Acne can be a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Even if the appearance of acne changes during a plan, ongoing maintenance consultations may be necessary to support the skin and manage future concerns.

Everyone is different and therefore has a different experience. Each person’s skin and acne concerns are unique. An approach that one individual finds suitable may not be the same for another. The team here at Shellharbour Skin consists of Dr Barney Gordon-Hall and a team of registered nurses and dermal clinicians. We collectively develop personalised consultation plans based on the specific needs and feedback of each patient.

Consistency and compliance are important factors. A successful acne management plan often requires consistent use and adherence to skincare routines. Patients may need to explore different options until they find an approach that fits their lifestyle and is manageable for long-term use.

With all that said, we value a patient’s commitment to seeing their journey through, staying consistent, and remaining driven towards their skin goals. We offer consultations which play a crucial role in providing the time and space to assess each patient’s acne concerns, including its severity and characteristics. This allows us to develop personalised management plans designed to support the patient through their journey.

Written by Dermal Clinician Amanda Dermal