You’re probably already familiar with the struggle of finding the time in your busy schedule for annual checkups or doctor appointments, but fewer people remember to schedule regular checkups with a dermatologist. Dermatologists are skin doctors who specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating people with skin disorders and concerns. Common dermatological treatments include topical ointments and creams as well as minimally invasive surgical procedures. Dermatologists also address cosmetic concerns, working with patients to rejuvenate their skin and improve their appearance.
The Importance of Skin
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, working hard to maintain your body temperature, protect you from the elements and keep bacteria, fungus and other disease-causing organisms out. Your skin also plays a pretty big role in your appearance. Some people only schedule a checkup with a skin doctor when they have a problem but adding regular dermatology appointments into your healthcare routine can keep your skin looking younger, fresher and healthier. Here are five reasons everyone needs to see their dermatologist.
1. Personalized Skin Care
A board-certified dermatologist can be one of your best allies in the fight against visible aging. Dermatologists are uniquely qualified to identify your skin type, risk factors and individual needs. Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin, they can recommend a personalized approach to anti-aging treatments and preventive therapies.
2. The Body-Skin Connection
Your physical health can affect the appearance and health of your skin. Some health issues such as diabetes and high cholesterol frequently affect the skin, with their earliest signs being color or texture changes. Your skin can reveal dehydration or nutritional deficiencies, leading to a prematurely aged or tired appearance. Even some medications and therapies can affect the look or health of your skin. A dermatologist is perfectly positioned to help you to both improve your skin and address underlying health concerns.
3. Age-Related Skin Changes
While you might not see the visible signs of aging in your other organs, your skin is different. As you age, the epidermis, or outer layer, gets thinner. Your skin might look thinner than it did. If you have fair skin, you might notice sunspots and other areas of abnormal pigment.
In sun-exposed skin, you’ll notice changes in your skin’s strength and elasticity, leading to a leathery, weathered appearance. Fragile blood vessels can be easily damaged, causing bruising. You may also develop small red spots called cherry angiomas. Oil gland activity slows down, and your skin might feel itchy, tight and dry.
A dermatologist can help you prevent or tackle these problems and keep your skin soft, glowing and beautiful.
4. Preventing Skin Problems
Regular checkups can both prevent problems and identify them at early stages. During a checkup, you’ll have a full-body scan to check for any signs of skin cancer. You may also want to review your skin routine and make adjustments to provide for your changing needs.
Preventing skin problems is easier, less expensive and healthier than tackling them once they occur. Identifying problems early ensures that you’ll have plenty of treatment options and better odds for a positive outcome.
5. Protecting Your Skin
General and family practitioners can help with some skin problems, but board-certified dermatologists are the experts. They are not only intimately well-acquainted with both common and rare skin issues but can also provide you with the most advanced and targeted treatments whether you’re struggling with a few fine lines or you have more serious concerns, such as potential skin cancer.
Getting the Most Out of Your Dermatology Appointments
For healthier, brighter, fresher-looking skin, you need your own skin doctor. Visit your doctor regularly to establish a strong relationship. Your dermatologist will get to know you and your skin as well as your overall health issues, which means that he or she will also be able to recommend the most appropriate treatments. Most people should schedule a dermatology appointment at least annually. More frequent appointments can be helpful if you have any skin diseases or disorders, such as eczema or rosacea. For your next checkup, schedule an appointment with DCA!