When Should You Visit A Dermatologist?
Posted by Ellie Swain on Nov 22nd 2021
Our skin goes through a lot. Not only is it the largest organ in the body, but your skin also protects you against germs, repels water, and covers your organs, nerves, and blood vessels.
That why it’s essential to look after your skin, and not just for aesthetic reasons. If you’re concerned about something related to your skin, it may be worth visiting a dermatologist.
Here are some of the top conditions a dermatologist can help you with. And remember, if in doubt, it’s always best to make the visit, just in case your concern is something serious.
Acne
Ah, the dreaded acne. We’ve all experienced acne and breakouts at some point in our life, with some people experiencing most severe cases than others.
If you have persistent acne that isn’t responding to over-the-counter treatments, you may decide to meet a dermatologist.
While acne usually isn’t harmful, it can easily make you feel insecure and conscious about your appearance. A dermatologist can help determine which type of prescription treatment would be most effective for your condition and lifestyle.
If you haven’t tried any over-the-counter products for your breakouts yet, we recommend the PCA Skin AcneCream. The potent formula contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to target blemishes and speed up the clearing process. Gluconolactone also helps prevent dryness, so you don’t have to worry about the peeling side effects many other acne treatment products deliver.
Skin Cancer
If you notice a mole or patch on your skin that’s changed in color, shape, or size, you must see a dermatologist. While it may not be anything serious, these changes can be signs of skin cancer.
If you do have skin cancer, it’s important to seek treatment sooner rather than later. Your dermatologist can also help you arrange regular skin checkups or screenings.
Itchy Hives or Rashes
Does it feel or look like you’re having an allergic reaction on your skin? Or does your skin seem infected?
See a dermatologist for answers if you’re suffering from itchy hives or rashes that won’t seem to budge. Your dermatologist may prescribe medications or suggest another form of treatment to calm your skin.
Scars
If you have a scar that won’t seem to heal over or looks less than desirable, a dermatologist may help you.
Fortunately, there are various treatments and techniques available in dermatology to help treat scars, like laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and more.
Whether you have a stubborn acne scar or a raised keloid, there’s a treatment available to improve its appearance. For more severe scars, a dermatologist may refer you to a plastic surgeon for enhanced treatment. For example, burn scars.
For acne scars, you may want to try an over-the-counter treatment before investing in a dermatologist treatment. We’d recommend the MuradInvisiscar Resurfacing Treatment for help minimizing post-acne scars.
Skin Irritation
If you have itchy, red, flaky skin that isn’t reacting to all the lotions and potions you’ve purchased over-the-counter, it may be time to head to the dermatologist’s office.
It can be easy to pass dry and flaky skin off due to the weather, sensitivity to skincare products, or genetics. But, you may have a chronic skin condition.
Eczema
This leads us to eczema. Eczema is a common, chronic skin condition characterized by itchiness, irritation, and flaky patches of skin.
A dermatologist can help you manage your eczema and prescribe any treatment required.
Nail Disorders
Some nail disorders can be pretty unsightly and rather unpleasant to have – such as ingrown nails, a fungal infection, or warts.
Plus, having a dermatologist look over your nails is good practice to keep. Nails can display other signs of other conditions, like liver disease, anemia, heart conditions, or diabetes.
Hair Loss
Have you noticed more hair than usual on your pillow this morning? Or maybe more strands are falling out as you brush your hair? You may have a scalp disorder, and if so, it’s important to begin some preventative therapies before your hair loss worsens.
Your dermatologist can suggest laser therapies or other treatments to keep your locks looking their best.
How to Prepare for your Dermatologist Visit
Before visiting your dermatologist, it helps to prepare by:
- Checking your health insurance plan to see what services are covered and if you require a referral from your primary care provider
- Having all necessary medical cards and identification ready to bring with you
- Creating a list of all the medications and supplements you’re currently taking
- Making a list of questions and concerns to discuss
- Avoiding wearing make-up if you want the dermatologist to check the skin on your face
Do you want more skincare advice? Here’s how to deal with dry and cracked lips this winter.