Your skin is the first thing the world sees of you. In addition to being the most visible part of the body, it is actually the largest organ in the human body accounting for up to ten percent of your body weight. It is also the most important organ. It protects the rest of your body from exposure to the outside world and keeps everything in place and contained within your body. Because your skin is so important, you should be sure to take special care of it. This, of course, includes visits to a dermatologist. The key is to know when you should go see a dermatologist to help you with your skincare. After all, it needs to last you a long time.
An Annual Cancer Screening
First and foremost, you should go see a dermatologist once a year for an annual cancer screening. This is not a doctor's appointment you need to dread going to. It is quick and painless. In fact, the screening itself is a thorough visual assessment of the skin by your dermatologist.
If they find anything that looks suspicious or questionable, they may then ask you to either monitor the mole or skin tag for any noticeable changes, or they may advise you to have it biopsied. A biopsy is when the doctor removes a sample of potentially worrisome tissue and tests it to see if it is malignant.
By going in for your screening yearly, your dermatologist will be able to detect any skin cancer cells early and treatment will be easier.
A Rash That Won't Go Away
If you have a minor rash, you probably don't need to go to the dermatologist right away. First, you can try over-the-counter anti-itch lotions and various natural remedies. Under most circumstances this will clear your minor skin irritations right up.
However, if weeks pass and none of the treatments you are trying have any effect, or your rash spreads or gets worse, you should schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. They will be able to prescribe you more powerful medications to clear that rash right up. Additionally, you may be suffering from a chronic skin condition like psoriasis or eczema. Persistent skin irritation can disrupt your entire life, so get it checked out as soon as possible.
You Are Struggling With Acne
Acne can be embarrassing, painful, and frustrating. It is especially frustrating if you keep trying different natural and over-the-counter remedies, but it just does not go away. And if you are no longer a teenager, but still struggling with acne, you feel even more frustrated. After all, this is supposed to be an adolescent condition according to popular culture.
Your dermatologist can provide you with prescription antibiotics and facial creams and treatment gels to help get rid of that pesky and annoying acne.
Going to the dermatologist is usually easy and painless. When you are having issues with acne, strange rashes that won't go away, or any other confusing issue with your skin, you can go in and get the relief you need. Additionally you should see a dermatologist once a year to ensure that if you do develop skin cancer, it can get treated quickly and efficiently. For more information, contact a local dermatologist, like those found at Southwest Dermatology Institute.
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