Whether you like or not, your skin gives a lot away. If you’ve had a late night, your skin will shout it to the world. Embarrassment will make itself apparent through a flushed visage. Should you be a certain kind of happy, the glow you radiate will be the giveaway.
Unfortunately, skin issues can have a serious effect on our self esteem and it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between a minor cosmetic issue or something more serious. With our skin so cherished and delicate, conditions are not something that should be taken lightly. Sometimes there are cases when the help of a professional is required in order to avoid a more permanent impression being left. We all want smoother, silkier skin, so, here are 10 signs that you should see a dermatologist.
You’re Experiencing Hair & Scalp Problems
While most people know that their scalp is made of skin, they often can’t fathom how scalp issues and the quality of their hair are inextricably linked. Bearing this in mind, a dermatologists can identify issues that may be associated with hair loss or hair thinning issues and arrest the possible decline of lush, healthy locks. While in some cases hair loss is irreversible, it can be sometimes caused by a skin issue that can be easily reversed with proper treatment.
Sudden Rashes That Won’t Go Away
Unless you’re a sufferer of eczema, allergies or psoriasis, any appearance of new, untreatable rashes should be taken seriously. Many people tend to brush off rashes as a simple reaction to something, but they can be the sign of a more serious condition. You should see a dermatologist as soon as you see the rash so it can be diagnosed properly.
Cystic Acne
Regular acne isn’t always problematic to the point that you need to see a professional, and it often dissipates with minimal intervention. Cystic acne, on the other hand, should be attended to immediately.
This form is more persistent than regular acne and over the counter solutions often prove to be ineffective. A registered, experienced dermatologist, such as those working at De Felipe London, will be able to use extraction techniques to alleviate the condition.
Brittle Or Yellow Nails
Nails are another body part which people don’t assume dermatologists can help with. However, if you notice that your nails are thickening, turning yellowish in colour, or becoming brittle; all signs of a more serious issue, such as fungal infection. These, when left untreated, can lead to other complications so should not be taken lightly. A dermatologist may prescribe a topical or oral prescription for your fungus problem depending on the severity of the issue.
Abnormal Discoloration
If parts of your skin are suddenly appearing darker or more pale than usual, then you should see a doctor immediately. In some cases, people who have had acne issues for long periods of time may be left with some blemishes or spots once the acne is gone. These can be almost impossible to get rid of on your own but a good dermatologist will be able to give you treatments to get rid of these blemishes right away.
Persistent Dryness Or Flakiness
If you’re experiencing areas of dry, flaky skin that resist your usual moisturizing routine, it could be a sign of an underlying skin condition such as dermatitis, psoriasis, or eczema. These conditions often require specific treatments that a dermatologist can prescribe after an accurate diagnosis.
Moles Or Skin Lesions That Change
Any changes in moles or skin lesions, such as asymmetry, border irregularity, color changes, diameter growth, or evolving characteristics (known as the ABCDEs of melanoma), should prompt an immediate visit to a dermatologist. These could be signs of skin cancer, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
Itchy Skin That Doesn’t Improve
Chronic itchiness, especially when it’s not associated with a visible rash or skin condition, could be a sign of an internal issue or a skin disease like dermatitis. Persistent itching can lead to scratching, which increases the risk of infection, so it’s important to get it checked out by a professional.
Unexplained Redness Or Swelling
Unexplained redness or swelling of the skin can be a sign of an allergic reaction, infection, or other inflammatory conditions. A dermatologist can help determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment to reduce the inflammation and address the underlying issue.
Wounds Or Sores That Do Not Heal
If you have sores, ulcers, or wounds on your skin that are slow to heal or not healing at all, this could be a sign of diabetes, an infection, or a compromised immune system. Non-healing wounds can also be a sign of skin cancer. A dermatologist can assess and treat these wounds to prevent further complications.
The Bottom Line
Your skin is not just the body’s largest organ; it’s also a window to your overall health. Recognising the signs that warrant professional attention is crucial in maintaining not just your skin’s appearance, but its health and, by extension, your well-being. So, listen to your skin—it’s more communicative than you might think, and when it speaks, it’s wise to pay attention.
*This article is intended to be for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dermatologist or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.*
