Long days in the sunshine feel amazing, but they also make it necessary for us to be safe.
It’s crucial to regularly see your dermatologist both for sun damage and a huge variety of skin ailments.
“A dermatologist sees everything about the skin, from hair to nails.
Signs and symptoms can be for just about anything.”
Itchy, red scalp
An itchy scalp is more than just annoying.
You may have a chronic condition that can be treated.
Don’t assume that this is something you just have to live with.
Hair loss
Another scalp annoyance that you don’t have to just take is hair loss.
“A dermatologist will determine that for you.”
If you notice any changes to your skin after time in the sun, make an appointment.
Instead of spending the rest of the summer worrying about that spot, ask your physician for next steps.
The new mark may be benign, but you just can’t be sure on your own.
“Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer.
Early detection and removal can be a cure.
If you see something, don’t wait, and see to it to get yourself checked out.”
Having severe or worsening acne isn’t just embarrassing or uncomfortable.
It can actually leave permanent marks and scarring, so don’t let it get out of hand.
“If you notice worsening acne, see a dermatologist to help prevent scarring,” said Dr. Frey.
This could be an early sign of skin cancer, and the faster you catch it, the better.
When it comes to changing moles, dermatologists always recommendwatching out for ABCDE.
“A” stands for asymmetry.
Look for a mole that is abnormally shaped, rather than a circle.
“B” is for borders.
If a mole’s border is changing, get it checked out.
“D” stands for diameter.
Any mole larger than six millimeters needs to be seen by a dermatologist.
Finally, “E” stands for evolving.
Any mole that is changing, especially one that starts bleeding, itching, or crusting over is concerning.
Another way to remember this warning sign is to check for any new spots.
“Look for an ‘ugly duckling sign,”" Dermatologist Jennifer T. Haley told me.
“It is a new or changing spot that looks different from anything else on your body.”
“A dermatologist also treats nails,” explained Dr. Kovak.
“Look for discoloration, a raised-off nail bed, pus under the nail, or pain.”
If you have a nail infection brewing, your dermatologist can quickly treat it before it spreads.
Skin aging
Hallelujah!
Skin aging is not something we just have to accept.
Dermatologist and Co-founder of DermWarehouse Alan Parks recommends talking with your dermatologist about healthy aging.
It is also important to talk with your physician before investing in expensive skin cream and treatments.
He or she could save you a lot of time and money.
The skin condition rosacea manifests as permanent blushing and can be treated.
So basically everything you enjoy and find fun is adding that red hue to your poor cheeks.
Talk with your dermatologist about your treatment options.
Your dermatologist may recommend intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments.
New rash
A new rash can be very tricky to figure out on your own.
Do yourself a favor and go right to the expert.
Your rash especially needs to be evaluated if it doesn’t go away after a couple days.
Sometimes chronic skin conditions like eczema can appear as a rash.
It’s important to see your dermatologist to get diagnosed.
Unfortunately this could be a sign of skin cancer, so it’s crucial to address it.
If your sore has been around for more than a few weeks, make an appointment.
Some bug bites can last up to a month, so don’t worry right away.
However, don’t wait if it’s gone past the 30 day mark.
Excessive sweating
Here’s some good news.
Your excessive sweating could actually be treated.
“I also see patients dealing with excessive sweat,” Dr. Roher told me.
“double-check to go in annually for a full skin check,” said Dr. Haley.
These annual visits are also a great time to discuss preventative strategies and personalized skin care recommendations."
“Everyone should see a dermatologist at least yearly for an annual skin examination,” he told me.
The truth is, whenever we search the internet for medical answers, it is usually wrong.
Dr. Marder reminded me, “never self diagnose!”
