Your skin is your largest organ and it protects you from heat, cold, germs and dangerous substances. It also provides clues about your health, and changes in the look and feel of your skin can be a warning sign of illness. Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the skin, hair and nails and managing cosmetic disorders.
They treat common conditions like eczema and acne, and they recognize symptoms that can indicate an internal problem, such as liver disease or an infection of the blood vessels. They can perform surgical procedures to remove tumors, cysts and other abnormalities. They can also remove warts, skin tags and some kinds of moles.
Dermatologists can also help you manage the effects of aging, sun damage and other environmental factors on your skin. They can help you develop a healthy skin care routine and provide treatments that keep your skin soft, glowing and beautiful.
During a checkup, your dermatologist will carefully examine the entire surface of your skin for signs of cancer and other diseases. It’s important to have a yearly appointment because skin problems can be easier, less expensive and healthier to treat when they are caught in their earliest stages.
A dermatologist can also recommend a regimen to prevent Skin Doctor aging, including sunscreen use and proper makeup application. If you have an inherited condition that makes your skin sensitive to the sun, they may recommend more frequent sunscreen use or suggest special protective clothing.
If you have an unusual lump or rash, a dermatologist can diagnose it by removing a small sample of skin, hair or nail and studying it under a microscope. They can also use special tests to identify infections or determine whether a mole is cancerous.
In addition to performing medical procedures, dermatologists can offer a variety of aesthetic services, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion. They can also inject dermal fillers, botox and other wrinkle-reducing substances to give you a younger, more refreshed appearance.
If you’re shopping for a dermatologist, make sure they are board certified by the American Academy of Dermatology or the American Board of Dermatology. You can also tell they are a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology if you see FAAD after their name. This signifies that they have completed additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail disorders. Choosing a dermatologist with this extra training ensures that they have the knowledge and experience to handle any health or beauty issues you may have. They are also experts in the latest techniques and equipment to diagnose and treat conditions of the skin, hair and nails.