The skin is the largest organ in the body, and most of the time you can take care of your skin at home with common sense practices. However, there may come a time when you need the skills of a physician who specializes in the skin, hair, and nails to resolve some skin concerns. Learn about when you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
1. Acne and Acne Scarring
One of the most common reasons people visits a Dermatologist is to address acne and acne scarring. Whether you are a teenager or an adult struggling with hormonal acne, dealing with active acne can be a long-term problem. Acne can also compromise the tone and texture of your skin by creating acne scars such as post-inflammatory erythema, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, keloid scars, and other textural scars.
Treating Acne and Acne Scarring
A Dermatologist expert can treat acne and acne scarring with a variety of topical, oral, and cosmetic treatments. For example, treating active acne can include prescribing topical retinoids, oral medication such as Accutane, and cosmetic treatments such as LED therapy or other facials to regulate oil production in the skin.
For scarring, the goal is generally to turn over new skin cells and generate new collagen to restore the even tone and texture of the skin. Your skin expert may recommend retinoids, microneedling, chemical peels, laser treatment, or other therapies to reduce acne scarring.
2. Suspicious Mole or Patch
Many people may also schedule an appointment with a skin expert if they notice a suspicious mole or patch on the skin. In general, moles on the skin should be unchanging, so if you notice an abnormal mole that has changed in color, size, or texture, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a skin expert. Similarly, if you have a patch of skin that is red, bleeding, or unable to heal, you will need attention from a medical dermatology expert.
Skin Cancer Screening
For people who are at a higher risk of getting skin cancer or who have a suspicious patch of skin, skin cancer screenings are an essential tool to rule out conditions such as melanoma or basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancer screenings will look at the whole body to identify any moles that meet the criteria for abnormal, possibly cancerous skin.
3. Hives and Skin Inflammation
People who frequently have hives or skin inflammation, such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea, may also need to see a skin expert. A skin doctor will be able to assess the condition of your skin and possibly pinpoint the trigger for hives, contact dermatitis, cellulitis, or other conditions.
Topical Medications
When a skin expert is treating hives and other skin inflammation, the first line of defense is typically topical medications such as corticosteroids. Topical medications can reduce inflammation on the skin, promote healing, and help the skin recover from certain conditions. However, depending on your skin condition, topical medications may not be the only prescription you’re required to take to control your skin condition.
4. Sun Damage
If you have advanced sun damage on your face and body, you may also want to visit a skin expert. Not only will a medical skin doctor assess sun damage for signs of skin cancer, but they may also make recommendations for treatments that can reduce the appearance of dark spots, redness, and other sun damage.
Removing Sun Damage
Removing sun damage will depend on the extent of your skin condition. For the most part, laser treatments and chemical peels are the most effective means to reduce sun damage on the face and body. After your treatment, your physician will recommend using SPF every day to prevent future sun damage.
5. Skincare Recommendations
Sometimes, it can be difficult to figure out what products you should be using on your skin. When you visit a skin expert, they can perform a skin analysis to identify your skin type and the ideal products that will work best for you. It’s essential to use the correct products if you want to enhance the health of your skin.
Your skin expert can help you build a skincare routine that matches your budget and lifestyle, as well as your skin goals. It’s also important to follow the guidance of a skin expert to avoid interactions between your skin care products that could worsen your skin condition or prevent your skin care products from working effectively.
Lifestyle Changes
Your skin doctor may also make other recommendations, such as changes to your lifestyle habits. For example, skincare experts know that drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet can greatly benefit conditions such as eczema and acne. Furthermore, reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption can also slow down the ancient process and preserve your appearance.
Schedule an Appointment Today
There are several reasons why you may want to visit a dermatologist. For example, if you have active acne, acne scarring, sun damage, hives, skin inflammation, or a suspicious mole, a skin expert can analyze your skin and help you find medications to manage your skin condition. Contact Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC to schedule your consultation today.
