If you have a skin condition, a dermatologist may be the best doctor to treat it. These doctors specialize in treating skin problems and can refer you to a dermatology care center if you have skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, hair loss, or eczema. The following are some of the services offered by a dermatology clinic. Once you have decided on the service you want from a dermatologist, you should find a location in your area.
Skin cancer
The best way to avoid cancerous growths is to regularly have your skin checked for moles by a dermatologist. Fortunately, this kind of cancer is relatively easy to detect, and many doctors are well-versed in catching it early. In addition to regular skin exams, people should report any changes to their skin, including moles that itch or bleed or change in color or size. These abnormal growths are known as dysplastic moles. They are difficult to spot because they have features different from healthy moles. These include irregular borders, multiple colors, or a very dark pigment.
Eczema
If you’ve been struggling with eczema, you may be wondering about the available eczema services in dermatology. Your dermatologist will likely be able to diagnose your skin condition and formulate a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. For example, a doctor may recommend at-home therapies for mild symptoms, such as applying a moisturizer to the affected area, a UV light treatment, or dermatologic products Canton, MA. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroids.
Psoriasis
If you have psoriasis, you may have questions about your diagnosis and treatment options. Your initial appointment will include an extensive questionnaire about your health history and skin condition. Your doctor will then develop a personalized care plan for you, which may include referrals to rheumatology or other specialists if necessary. Early treatment of psoriasis is essential to minimize its symptoms and allow you to lead a normal lifestyle.
Hair loss
If you suffer from hair loss, dermatologists can provide you with medical and surgical treatments to solve the problem. The hair consists of two structures: the visible outer layer, called the follicle, and the inner layer, known as the dermis. Keratin, the protein that makes up hair, is produced by the follicle. Each hair follicle contains several hundred keratin cells strung together and pushed through the scalp.
Laser treatments
There are two major laser treatments in dermatology, ablative and nonablative. Ablative lasers target the upper layer of the skin, while nonablative lasers target deeper tissue. The difference between these two types is the amount of energy emitted and the wavelength absorbed by the target tissue. Nonablative lasers are best suited for darker skin, while ablative lasers require more treatment sessions.
Noninvasive therapies
There are many types of noninvasive therapies in dermatology. One type involves light therapy. This procedure treats cosmetic and severe skin conditions by treating the area beneath the skin’s surface without cutting into the top layer of skin. Instead, the light is delivered at a specific wavelength, which causes skin cells to absorb the light and convert it to heat. Over a few days, these cells burst, releasing the affected tissue. This treatment is safe, effective, and does not leave telltale signs.
Medical spa treatments
The med spa industry has become enormously popular over the past decade, with non-physicians now providing lasers and topical anesthetics. While med spa discounts are attractive, patients should know that not all of these facilities are run by board-certified dermatologists. A licensed medical professional can provide expert guidance on addressing your concerns and restoring your skin’s overall health.