What Do Dermatologists Treat?
Dermatologists specialize in conditions with the skin. As a result, they are often associated with cosmetic procedures. However, while dermatologists can help with aging and cosmetic concerns, they also treat many other conditions. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Acne and Acne Scarring
Acne is incredibly common in teens, but even adults struggle with breakouts and stubborn acne. Types of acne include:
- Whiteheads
- Blackheads
- Papules
- Pustules
- Nodules
- Cysts
Treatment often depends on the type of acne, and your dermatologist can recommend or prescribe acne medications to fight infection/bacteria and help clean pores and remove excess sebum. If you struggle with scars from previous acne, a dermatologist can reduce their appearance, including fillers and laser resurfacing.
Aging and Wrinkles
As you age, you may start to notice:
- Wrinkles
- Sagging skin
- Discoloration
- Roughness
- Age spots/freckles
- Sallowness
Naturally, some habits can worsen or increase signs of aging. UV rays and smoking, for example, are notorious for aging your skin prematurely. Dermatologists use many treatments to help make skin look younger. Treatments include:
- Microdermabrasion
- Fillers/Botox
- Laser treatments
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation may occur for a variety of reasons, such as allergies. However, in some cases, this irritation leads to or is a side effect of a skin infection. Common skin infections include yeast infection, folliculitis, cellulitis, and much more. If you scratch the skin and break it, you may also allow infection to spread.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the irritation. If you have allergies, antihistamines may help. If you have a bacterial infection, antibiotic cream can help.
Skin Conditions
There are a wide variety of skin conditions that cause embarrassment, discomfort, or irritation. These include:
- Rosacea
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
Rosacea can often be controlled with lifestyle changes, but it goes through cycles, so a dermatologist may be able to help prevent breakouts. Eczema and psoriasis cause rough patches on the skin that are often itchy. There is no cure for these conditions, but your dermatologist can prescribe medications or make suggestions to reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Skin Cancer
Of course, dermatologists are your best ally when it goes to skin cancer. Skin cancer comes in many forms and may start as a small mole or bump, making it hard to notice. Like any cancer, however, if left ignored, skin cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body.
If you believe you have a high risk of skin cancer, or you are concerned about a mark on your skin, visit your dermatologist. Catching it early will greatly increase the success rate of treatment.
If you haven't visited the dermatologist in a while, it may be time to schedule an appointment. Even if your skin looks healthy, regular skin cancer screenings are important. For more information, contact a dermatologist near you.
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