You might think of seeing a skin specialist for cosmetic procedures, to freshen skin or to get rid of lines. But do you recognize the signs of problems that need the attention of a skin doctor?
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Here are some of the most common skin conditions and their warning signs.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. With millions of new cases diagnosed each year, report any suspicious new moles or a change in an existing mole. Do a monthly visual check of your skin using mirrors for hard-to-see areas using the “A-B-C-D-E” test. A mole is worrisome if it:
Another common — and persistent — skin problem is acne, with its clogged pores and pus-filled pimples. Breakouts can affect people well into their adult years.
For acne that doesn’t improve with drugstore products, see a dermatologist not only to clear up skin, but also to avoid permanent scars. Acne may not harmlessly just run its course.
Dry skin can be a result of the weather, sensitivity to skincare products, or even genetics. However, it could also be a result of a chronic skin condition.
Constant redness anywhere on the face can be a sign of rosacea. You might see thin blood vessels and pimples but not the blackheads of acne. A telltale clue that this is not acne: Rosacea won’t respond to acne treatments.
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Any persistent rash should be evaluated. It could be eczema with its dry, itchy patches, or the more serious psoriasis with thick plaques of silvery scales. It could even be lupus, an autoimmune disease that can cause a sunburn-like effect or thick scaly patches on the face.
A dermatologist can help you get some answers. They can also prescribe you medications or recommend another form of treatment.
Have a less-than-desirable scar that you’d like to get rid of? A dermatologist can help with that. Medical techniques such as laser treatment therapy, microdermabrasion, and others can reduce scarring.
Having a dermatologist look over your nails is a good thing, for a multitude of reasons.
Believe it or not, but your nails can show you signs of other body disorders like liver disease, heart conditions, anemia, or diabetes.
If your nail bed separates from the skin, it could be due to skin disease, an infection or a recent injury. Thickening of the nails, on the other hand, can be a sign of nail psoriasis.
If you have an ingrown nail, a fungal infection, or a wart, it’s also a good idea to get it checked out to ensure it isn’t being caused by something more serious.
Hair loss can be devasting for anyone and naturally when we experience it, we want to try everything under the sun to prevent further hair loss. However, the root of your hair loss may not be something that you can fix on your own. You may have a scalp disorder.
A dermatologist can help you get to the root of what’s causing your hair loss and put you on preventive therapies before your hair loss makes a bigger impact on your life. Your dermatologist can also recommend laser therapies or other treatments to keep you looking your best.
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Skin spots that are lighter or darker than other areas of your body are not uncommon and in some cases can be cosmetic concerns. However, there are serious conditions that can result in dark and light spots on your skin. To be on the safe side, a dermatologist can assess them to determine if there is cause for concern.
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Although sweating is a normal body function, excessive sweating can be caused by certain medical conditions, supplements or medications. If you are sweating more than normal, a dermatologist can get to the root of it.
Sleeping in your eye makeup or being too aggressive with the eye makeup remover can cause your eyelashes to thin. However, in some cases, eyelash thinning can be caused by a bacterial infection, hormonal imbalances, or an autoimmune disorder. If you can’t find the culprit, a dermatologist can help get to the root of it.
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Does your skin seem to be showing signs of aging more quickly than it should? A dermatologist can help with that. He or she may recommend a change in your skincare routine or lifestyle habits.
Mild dandruff can easily be treated with specialized shampoos and treatments. However, if those aren’t working and your itchy scalp and flakes are getting in the way of your everyday life; it’s time to seek professional help. Stress, environmental changes or imbalances within your body could be the culprit.
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Cold sores are often painful blisters that show up on or near the mouth and are typically small. If they don’t go away on their own or appear more than once or twice a year, talk to your dermatologist.
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