7 Reasons to See a Dermatologist

Your skin is the largest organ of your body, and is exposed to many different factors including the weather, the sun’s UV rays, lifestyle choices, and more. To properly care for your skin and ensure that it is healthy, it is important to see a dermatologist annually. Read on to learn about some of the most common reasons you may need to see a dermatologist.

1. A Mole or Patch of Skin That Looks or Feels Unusual

While many moles and lesions are not dangerous, there are some that may turn into cancer. Strange looking moles or hard masses or soft lumps and could signal the presence of a more serious skin condition. You should consult a dermatologist if a mole or a region of your skin has changed in color, size, shape, or symptom.

2. Persistent Acne

Acne occurs when pores clog and bacteria break down oils in your skin. The most common types of acne are blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. But a steady stream of pimples on the face can cause serious problems. The best way to treat acne is to see dermatologist for effective treatment. A harmless skin condition such as a staph infection can cause pimples, so it’s important to check your health before starting treatment.

3. Itchy Hives and Rashes That Won’t Go Away

What is it? Itchy hives, also known as urticaria, usually happen when your immune system attacks your skin. The rash can be severe, making you feel uncomfortable and even preventing you from going outside. But small hives are also not uncommon. They often develop after a hot shower or a bath and are most common in children between the ages of 4 and 12.

4. Wounds from Blemishes and Cuts

Scars are caused by damage to the skin. Most commonly, they appear when a wound heals and may appear anywhere on your body. There are some scars that can become large and painful, known as keloids. Other scars may be unsightly and unwanted. A dermatologist can treat both forms of scars for a more comfortable you.

5. Stubborn Skin Irritation

Itchy skin, often accompanied by a red, inflamed skin patch, is called dermatitis. Some cases are caused by a condition known as contact dermatitis, which occurs when you have allergic contact with a substance such as fragrance or certain drugs. Dermatitis can cause itching and irritation. If it’s severe, redness may appear around the rash and may even spread to other parts of the body where you’ve come in contact with the substance causing your itchiness.

6. Ingrown Nails and Nail Disorders.

If your nails are discolored, pitted, malformed, flaking, or cracking, and you can’t solve the problem yourself, you may want to seek medical treatment. Most nail problems are harmless, and some might even indicate an underlying skin condition. Dermatologists will use special instruments to view the infection in your nails and prescribe medicine and possibly laser treatment to cure it.

7. Sudden Hair Loss

Hair loss can occur for many reasons, from genetics and aging to certain medications and stress. It usually happens gradually or in patches, but sudden hair loss is also possible. Hair loss typically is not painful or dangerous and can be caused by several things, such as minor illness or stress. However, it is important to see a physician if you are losing large amounts of hair and don’t know why. Your Dermatologists will examine you for hair growth disorders that might need treatment.

Schedule a Consultation

It’s important to get medical care when any signs of a skin disease appear, from an itchy rash to excessive hair loss. Dr. Shauna Diggs will diagnose the nature of your condition and recommend the best treatment for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.