Lawrence A. Schiffman, D.O., FAOCD - Board Certified Dermatologist

Lawrence A. Schiffman, D.O., FAOCD - Board Certified Dermatologist

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5 Essential Reasons to Visit a Dermatologist

Published August 16th, 2019 by Thepracticeagency

Chances are, you've spent a lot of time in the sun this summer. Americans love the sun.

But the sun doesn't always love us.

There are over 3.5 million people diagnosed each year with skin cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. This is more than the combination of all other cancer types.

The key to beating skin cancer? Early detection.

While we are starting to realize the effects of spending too much time in the sun and the benefits of sunscreen, for some, the damage is already done.

Most people know to see a dermatologist when they find a suspicious mole. However, they fail to realize just how important a dermatologist is to your comprehensive medical care.

You don't have to suffer from problems with your skin, hair, or nails. Keep reading for 5 essential reasons to visit the dermatologist. 

1. For Your Annual Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer.

As is the case with all types of cancer, prevention, and early detection is extremely important for successful treatment and a good prognosis.

It's recommended that adults visit the dermatologist each year for an exam and skin cancer screening. At this appointment, your dermatologist can detect the prescience of any skin cancer early on and even offer help with prevention. 

Don't forget to examine your own skin throughout the year and between your appointments. If you see any changes to your skin, schedule an appointment right away.

Don't wait until your annual appointment. This is especially true if you notice any scaly rashes, markings, discolorations, or changes in the size, shape, texture, or color of spots or moles on your skin. These signs warrant a visit to the dermatologist as soon as possible. 

2. If You Have a Chronic Condition

If you find yourself experiencing chronic difficulties with your skin, a visit to the dermatologist may be in order.

If your skin is dry, red, itchy, or flaky, you might think you are just sensitive, have bad genes, or it's just the weather. If you experience these symptoms and have tried over the counter products like creams and lotions but aren't getting relief, you might have an actual skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema.

These conditions and many others can be treated or managed by a dermatologist. Your doctor can manage your condition with prescription-strength products like lotions and steroids that can calm your skin, reduce redness, and relieve itching.

Usually, these types of conditions aren't curable, but a dermatologist can help you feel better in your own skin. Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can go away without treatment, but there's no reason to suffer in the meantime. 

3. To Improve Scarring

If you are struggling with scarring on your skin, whether from acne, popping pimples, or injury, a dermatologist can help.

Scars can ruin your quality of life and can be hard to look at. You don't have to live with your scars thanks to advancements in medical technology.

Your dermatologist can significantly improve the appearance of your scars. Book a consultation with a dermatologist to find out what kind of procedures might be right for you.

Options include dermal fillers, skin grafting, laser treatment, and microdermabrasion. Whether your scars are severe or mild, your dermatologist can improve your skin and your confidence.

4. When You're Losing Hair

Most people think that hair loss is a normal part of getting older. The truth is, hair loss and scalp disorders can be diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist.

If you have noticed an increase in the amount of hair you're losing, consider visiting a dermatologist. For men with receding hairlines or who are just beginning to lose hair on the top of their head, visiting the dermatologist can mean the difference between losing more hair or not.

The same goes for women who are experiencing thinning on the top and front of their scalp. A dermatologist can fix these issues using procedures like hair transplantation or laser therapy as well as with injectable and topical steroids.

Hair loss can also sometimes be caused by underlying medical conditions. Your dermatologist can determine if that is the case and refer you to any other specialists you might need. 

5. If You Still Have Acne as an Adult

Suffering from acne as a teenager is bad enough. But for some people, it doesn't go away as they get older.

Adult acne can seem embarrassing, but there is nothing to be ashamed of. Don't hold out for your adult acne to go away on its own or blame it on random factors such as your diet or stress.

For those with adult acne, natural remedies and over the counter solutions probably won't cut it. A dermatologist can provide expert treatment to improve your skin and your life.

Dermatologists can prescribe advanced strength solutions ranging from oral medications and antibiotics to topical gels and creams. As mentioned above, they can also help minimize the appearance of acne scarring. 

Visiting the Dermatologist

Dermatologists are medically trained experts when it comes to skin, hair, and nails.

If you are experiencing any of the conditions described in this article, don't put off making an appointment. If you haven't been to the dermatologist this year for your annual skin cancer screening, book your appointment today.

Don't assume your symptoms are purely cosmetic. Your dermatologist is a medical doctor who should be a part of your care team.

Click here to book your consultation. 

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