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Writer's pictureBhawna Bijlani

Skin Problems? When to See a Dermatologist

Many of us will encounter a skin-related issue at some point in our lives, from minor skin rashes and allergic reactions to pimples. Since a lot of skin problems are temporary in nature, many of us may tend to downplay or dismiss certain issues until they worsen.


Some skin problems may be underlying symptoms of serious conditions or could impact the quality of your life. Before you self-medicate or dismiss the need for a doctor, here are some common skin conditions that you should consult a dermatologist for.


1. Cystic acne


Severe adult acne that is resistant to over-the-counter medications or mild skincare routines definitely needs a doctor’s attention. In some cases, this could be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) for women, or some type of hormonal imbalance.


A dermatologist can help design a customized treatment for your specific skin type, and advise what tests you should undergo to determine the cause for your breakout.


2. Abnormal skin growth or moles


Skin tags are fairly common and often not a cause for concern. However, if you have noticed unusual growth, frequency in the sudden appearance of skin spots, or some type of distortion and discoloration in your skin moles, you should definitely see a dermatologist right away. Unexpected skin growths like these may sometimes develop into skin cancer, so it’s wise to have a doctor check them out as soon as possible.


3. Chronic hives or eczema


Itchy skin is unpleasant for anyone. The degree of someone’s hives or eczema varies from person to person, so it’s important to take your tolerance level into consideration. Dermatologists can help you manage your condition better so it’s less likely to interfere with your daily activities.



4. Fungal skin infections


In case you find yourself struggling with common skin conditions brought about by humid weather such as ringworm, scabies, or cellulitis, seeing a doctor will help relieve you of these symptoms right away. You’ll be sure to receive the proper dosage information from your dermatologist’s prescription when dealing with fungal skin infections.


5. Skin cancer screening


If you have a history of skin cancer, or you know that you are prone to this disease, it’s important to have regular screening with a dermatologist once a year to check your status. Melanoma is a fatal type of skin cancer, and like with any type of illness, prevention through early diagnosis is better than being too late.


6. Severe hair loss


If you’ve been noticing way more hair loss than usual every time you shower or brush your hair, it’s time to pay a visit to your dermatologist. They can identify the underlying cause of hair loss through skin tests and help advise which products you should use to restore your hair health and promote growth.


7. Scar treatments


A dermatologist can also help you out in cases where you need specialized treatment in eliminating scarring. While acne scars or keloids are not life-threatening, minimizing their appearance can definitely boost your confidence and improve your quality of life.


Seek treatment when you need it


If you notice symptoms of any of the skin conditions listed above, it’s time to consult a doctor. You can conveniently contact a licensed dermatologist on the Doctor Anywhere app. Don’t ignore the discomfort. Download the DA app today.



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