Table 1.

Important questions to ask during the medical history

QUESTIONS SPECIFIC FOR ACNE IN SKIN OF COLOR	EVALUATES FOR
What is your skin type? Normal, dry, oily, combination? Any seasonal change?	Irritation potential
Do you use any brushes, scrubs, or sponges (e.g., loofah sponge) to wash your face?	Irritation potential
Do you use any ethnic skin products? Over-the-counter bleaching creams? Benzoyl peroxide products?	Irritation potential
Have you previously used any prescription acne medications? Did you have any success or reactions (i.e., irritant contact dermatitis) with the medication?	Irritation potential
Do you wear sunscreen daily?	Risk for worsening PIH
What types of hair care products do you use? Oils, emollients?	Pomade acne
What types of cosmetics do you use? Make-up removers?	Acne cosmetica
Any personal or family history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency?	Topical dapsone
What other medications are you currently taking? Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole? Antimalarials?	Topical dapsone
Do you have a history of keloidal or hypertrophic scarring?	Risk for acne surgery, chemical peeling, or laser therapy

PIH = Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation