Dr. Marguerite Germain can spot your problem immediately. Her warm personality puts you instantly at ease even as she assesses the issues with your skin, whether they are wrinkles, moles, odd-looking spots, sun damage or the scourge of adolescence: acne – the worst kind of spotlight on your face.
If you have acne, you are not alone.
“Sixty million people in the United States have acne,” said Dr. Germain, of Germain Dermatology. “It is the most common skin disorder. If not treated, it leads to scarring.”
Many people – acne affects those of every age, not just teens – do nothing or try to handle the problem themselves with products from the local drugstore. We don’t see it as an illness, yet it is a condition that can be treated, often with dramatic results, by a physician.
The effects of acne are more than skin deep. Approximately 85 percent of Americans have acne at some point in their lives. About 31 percent admit that facial blemishes have kept them from participating in social events, while 46 percent have suffered from selfesteem issues.
“With proper treatment by a doctor, the severity and duration of acne can be reduced by 80 percent,” said Dr. Germain. “Yet only 10 percent see a doctor.”
Dr. Germain explained that there are three causes of acne: bacteria, oil and “sticky” cells that form tiny plugs deep in the pores. Germain Dermatology has an arsenal of weapons that can fight these causes, including antibiotics, topical preparations and procedures such as lasers. Germain Dermatology offers a line of products for acne and to fight the signs of aging as well.
Clear skin requires a commitment on your part. Dr. Germain offers three suggestions for better skin. First, do not pick at your zits. This makes the inflammation worse and sets the stage for scarring. Two, use oil-free products. And three, stick to your routine; not washing your face, even for a single day, is asking for a breakout.
If you seek treatment from a dermatologist, you will be rewarded with less scarring and clearer skin. And if you have scarring from past acne, you will find there are effective treatments to smooth the skin.
More women than men suffer from acne – one in four compared to only one in 20. Even mature women may have acne but, according to Dr. Germain, “many acne treatments are anti-aging, too.”
In addition to acne, Germain Dermatology provides a variety of medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments for skin conditions ranging from rosacea to cancer. Those seeking to turn back time will find a full range of therapies, including fillers, peels and microdermabrasion. Laser hair removal and CoolSculptingTM also are offered.
Dr. Germain has been voted Charleston’s best dermatologist for the last seven years, and, when you meet her, the reason why will be very clear.
Germain Dermatology is located at 612 Seacoast Parkway in Mount Pleasant. For more information, call (843) 881-4440 or visit www.GermainDermatology.com.
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