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How to Treat Sun-Damaged Skin

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Fun in the summer sun can turn into skin damage without protection. If years of skipping sunscreen, tanning, or burning have left your skin with wrinkles, age spots, or worse, take a look at what you can do to treat the damage.

Wrinkle Reduction

Even though wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process, sun exposure can cause premature changes or worsen the appearance of fine lines. What can you do about wrinkles? Professionally guided treatment from a dermatologist can reduce the appearance of fine lines and reverse some of the sun-related aging.

Common methods for reducing wrinkles include:

Injectable fillers. Botox is a popular injectable used to smooth fine lines. While it won't remove deep wrinkling, it can dramatically improve the texture of your sun damaged skin and take years off your face.
Retinoids. Prescription topical retinoids can also smooth fine lines. But like injectables, don't expect retinoids to remove wrinkles or all the sun damage.
Microdermabrasion. This minimally invasive procedure reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. You'll get smoother skin with a more even texture from this process.
Chemical peels. Like microdermabrasion, this procedure also resurfaces the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and evening skin tone.
Moisturizers. Moisturizers and moisture-containing creams can plump the skin, reducing the look of lines. This over the counter option typically provides the least dramatic results.

Which winkle reduction option is right for you? A consultation with a dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic procedures can help you to make an informed decision that you feel comfortable with.

Age Spot Issues

Discoloration from excessive or consistent sun exposure doesn't have to be a problem. While the flat brown, black, or gray spots typically don't cause health problems, they can hurt your self-confidence. If you're concerned about the appearance of age spots, reduce the look of this type of sun damage by using:

Retinoids. Again, retinoid creams can reduce the look of sun damage. Along with smoothing fine lines, this option can also fade age spots.
Microdermabrasion. Removing the surface layer of skin on and around age spots can also fade the dark look of this type of sun damage.
Cryosurgery. The doctor can freeze away age spots with liquid nitrogen.
Pulsed light. This treatment uses light waves to target and break apart the spots.

Like with wrinkle reduction, removing or reducing the appearance of age spots doesn't come with a one-size-fits-all treatment. Talk to your dermatologist about what option works best for your skin and individual needs.

Skin Cancer

This serious skin issue goes well beyond the cosmetic problems wrinkles or age spots can cause. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will have some form of skin cancer by the time they reach 70. This includes melanoma and non-melanoma (such as squamous and basal cell carcinomas) skin cancer.

If you have an off-looking area of your skin, a mole that changes (in color, shape, or texture), a mole that bleeds or looks crusty, or any other similar sign, contact your dermatologist immediately. The sooner you get a diagnosis and treat the cancer, the better the chances are of recovery.

Treatments vary by cancer type, but can include:

Excisional surgery. The doctor removes the affected area and some of the surrounding skin/tissue.
Mohs surgery. This procedure requires layer by layer removal of the skin. In between removing layers, the doctor will look for cancer cells, continuing until they reach a clear area.
Freezing. Again, the doctor uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the area away.

Melanoma may require additional treatment, depending on the severity of the cancer and whether it has spread or not. Your dermatologist may refer you to another doctor for continued care following initial removal and diagnosis.

Do you need help correcting sun damage? Contact San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic for more information.

3 Options for Improving the Appearance of Old Acne Scars

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 19:02:38 GMT

Perhaps you experienced severe acne breakouts in your teens, or maybe you currently struggle with adult acne. Even when you get your blemishes under control, a scar can develop at the site of the breakout.

Acne scars develop when the skin is unable to properly repair the lesions caused by a breakout. Large blemishes are more likely to scar than smaller blemishes due to the additional damage to surrounding tissue. Both tissue loss and the over-stimulation of collagen (the protein that helps give skin its structure) can contribute to acne scarring.

If your scars make you feel self-conscious, you have multiple treatment options that can improve the appearance of your scars. Keep reading to learn about a few of the top treatment options that can help diminish the look of your scars.

1. Microdermabrasion or Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are both procedures that remove layers of the old skin (the layer that has the scar) to reveal new, unblemished layers of skin. The microdermabrasion procedure uses crystals that deeply exfoliate the old skin to reveal the new skin, while dermabrasion uses a tool similar in function to a sander. This tool literally sands the old skin away.

Whether you should pursue microdermabrasion or dermabrasion depends on your skin type and the severity of the scars that you need to remove. Microdermabrasion is suitable for all skin tones, but it yields the best results for less severe scarring. Your skin may appear pink for approximately 24 hours after your appointment.

Dermabrasion only works for patients with fair skin tones. It is a more intensive procedure that requires the use of a numbing agent, typically a numbing shot. However, it can rid the skin of deep acne scars. The healing process after a dermabrasion session can take up to 10 days. Your skin will often appear red and feel as if it has been burned.

2. Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a treatment that removes the top layer of your skin using a mix of acids and other ingredients. Your acne scars are typically less noticeable on the skin underneath the old layer. It works best for mild to moderate scars that aren't severely raised or depressed and is ideal for fair skin tones.

You can perform a light chemical peel at home using an over-the-counter product. These peels can improve the appearance of surface acne scars and the dark spots that appear when a blemish clears up. If you need more dramatic results, consider consulting a dermatologist to do your peel.

Your dermatologist can adjust the peel so that it suits your skin's unique needs. Light to medium chemicals are usually appropriate for acne scars. However, if you have other skincare goals (like improving the appearance of your wrinkles), a deep peel may work best for your skin. Stronger chemical peels usually have a longer, more intense healing period.

3. Soft Tissue Fillers

Acne scars that have created depressions within the skin call for a different treatment than those that appear raised or surface level. To reduce the appearance of a crater-like scar, you need to restore the tissue that the blemish damaged. Your dermatologist can insert soft tissue fillers into depressed scars to plump them back up.

Various types of fillers are available, and your doctor will work with you to find the ingredients ideal for your skin. Your dermatologist uses a small needle to insert the filler into the depression. One of the benefits of this treatment is that it requires little downtime. However, if you have a mix of depressed and surface level scars, you may need to combine the fillers with another treatment for the best results.

Ready to boost your confidence levels? Contact the San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic to schedule your consultation.

3 Surprising Factors That Increase Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 03:41:21 GMT

Experts estimate over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. These statistics combined with increasing new cases each year prompt higher levels of awareness regarding skin cancer prevention and treatment.

You have a greater chance of dodging a skin cancer diagnosis yourself when you educate yourself about various risk factors that lead to skin cancer. But did you know that more than just too much tanning at the beach raises your odds? Look at these three surprising factors that can increase your risk of skin cancer.

1. Your Occupation

Where you physically work for a living or spend a large part of your life can actually increase your likelihood of getting skin cancer.

People who work outdoors all day are more prone to skin cancer simply because they are exposed to more UV light than those who work indoors all day. Construction workers, landscapers, farmers and ranchers, anglers, lifeguards, and professional dog walkers are among the many occupations that take you outside.

Even if you work indoors, some types of jobs can expose you to chemicals or other materials that are likely to cause skin cancer. Pest control workers face possible exposure to arsenic present in some types of insecticides. Make sure you protect yourself appropriately if you work in mining or industrial settings that have industrial tar, paraffin, coal, and oil.

If your occupation is not prone to raise your skin cancer risk, look at where you live in the world. Certain areas experience thinner ozone layers to block UV rays or receive more direct, intense UV rays. Some examples include higher altitudes, countries along the equator, or areas with year-round sun like the Southwest.

2. Your Genetics

People with a family history of this cancer have an increased risk.

One hereditary type of melanoma has been traced to a chromosome mutation called p16. The resulting unregulated cell growth is found in 40% of family cases. Parents with this genetic mutation have a 50% chance of passing it onto their children.

Additionally, other ways exist to inherit the likelihood of skin cancer. Because malignant skin cancer starts in your pigment-producing skin cells, your fair or freckled skin you inherited from your parents is more susceptible to harmful UV rays. Blondes and redheads experience similar vulnerability as well.

3. Your Sunscreen

The sunscreen you apply to your skin to block UV rays may cause skin cancer. Growing evidence suggests certain chemicals in many sunscreen products may increase your risks.

Vitamin A compounds like retinol and retinyl palmitate are proven photocarcinogenics. Vitamin A derivatives react to the sunlight and become toxic after a person applies the sunscreen their skin. Another ingredient found in sunscreen, oxybenzone, reacts the same way to sunlight. Both of these ingredients produce free radicals that harm DNA cells and hasten ageing.

Sunscreen might just hurt more than it helps. During the last 30 years of heavy sunscreen emphasis, skin cancer rates have doubled.

Sunscreen does more than contain potentially toxic ingredients. As it blocks UV rays, sunscreen effectively blocks healthy doses of Vitamin D your body uses to help absorb calcium and regulate your immune system. Experts recommend you opt to stay indoors or cover up with clothes and a hat. Otherwise, carefully read your sunscreen product label.

If you are at a higher risk for skin cancer, visit San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic to learn how we can help you with diagnosis and treatment options. We are also happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you have. We look forward to hearing from and serving you and your medical needs.

2 Great Reasons to Consider a Chemical Peel

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Your face is an essential component of your unique identity, allowing you to express yourself, smile, and communicate effectively with others. Although time can take a heavy toll on your skin, professional dermatologists can help to tip the scales in your favor by offering treatments like chemical peels. Here are two reasons you should consider a chemical peel, and why you won't regret your decision.

1. Improve Adult Acne

If you struggled with acne as a teenager, your chances of dealing with adult acne are higher. Additionally, fluctuating hormone levels, certain medications, and even stress can contribute to later-in-life breakouts, making you feel self-conscious about the way your skin appears. However, mild chemical peels can be completed in a few minutes in your dermatologist's office, helping you to eradicate breakouts and improve the consistency of your skin.

Superficial chemical peels use ingredients like alpha hydroxy, salicylic, or glycolic acid to slough off exterior skin cells, unclogging pores and clearing up your skin. While many at-home acne products contain these additives, dermatologists have access to higher concentrations of these topical treatments, providing a faster, more effective treatment.

After the skin is cleansed, these chemicals are carefully applied to the face, where a microscopic reaction starts to take place. Surface-level skin cells will start to slough off immediately. Meanwhile, the medication continues to penetrate the skin to spark a healing reaction that promotes fresh skin growth.

Although the entire procedure can be completed in as little as a lunch break, these superficial chemical peels are incredibly effective at eliminating acne. In fact, research has shown that salicylic chemical peels can reduce acne levels by up to 75 percent , while 95 percent of patients who receive glycolic acid peels report dramatic improvements after 3 treatments.

2. Reveal Fresher, Younger-Looking Skin

The fight against wrinkles is real, and it only becomes more difficult the older you get. Each time you make a facial expression, microscopic grooves form under the skin. While these grooves snap back quickly in young people with thick, elastic skin, older people who have thinner, less elastic skin can start to accumulate visible creases.

Additionally, because mature skin has a thinner layer of fat, the skin can start to appear droopy, while simultaneously exposing more of the underlying skeletal structure, creating a hollow appearance.

However, chemical peels are incredibly effective against wrinkles because chemical peels prompt the skin to slough its outer layers. Medium level chemical peels are commonly used to treat wrinkles. This treatment targets the lower levels of the skin, reducing the appearance of deep-set grooves.

After glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is applied to the skin, the regeneration process begins. The skin may become red or swollen for up to two weeks and then scab over. During the process, the skin must be kept exceptionally clean and moist to prevent scarring and allow new, smoother skin to form.

Because chemical peels also promote the production of collagen, the skin will stay looking plump and youthful until it has been damaged again. Additionally, because medium-level chemical peels spark the regeneration of so many layers of skin, the treatment can also help to treat sun damage, age spots, and even scarring.

In fact, one study showed that medium-level trichloroacetic acid chemical peels provided more than a 70 percent improvement in the appearance of scars in as much as 73.3 percent of patients, giving people the chance to regain their self-confidence.

Creating healthier, more beautiful skin starts at the dermatologist's office, so give us a call here at San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic . Whether you are ready for a chemical peel or you are interested in having a professional facial or laser resurfacing treatment, we can help.

3 Types of Non-Cancerous Lumps You Might Be Living With

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Discovering a new bump or lump can be scary, especially since unexplained growths can be cancerous. However, in the world of dermatology, there are all kinds of benign growths doctors can remove in-office under local anesthesia. The following are three types of non-cancerous lumps you might be living with, as well as why heading to the doctor early is in your best interest.

1. Lipomas

One of the most common types of benign skin tumors is lipomas, which are soft, fatty tumors that grow right under the surface of the skin. Common on arms, legs, shoulders, backs, and necks, lipomas can grow slowly over the course of several months or years and can become quite large.

Although most lipomas are smaller than 2 centimeters, some people develop giant lipomas, which are categorized as any lipoma larger than 5 centimeters. For instance, a California-based dermatologist removed a lipoma the size of a bowling ball from a man's upper back in May 2017. Since these tumors are composed of nothing more than fat and fibrous tissue, they can be removed under local anesthetic, even if they are on the larger side.

Occasionally, lipomas can grow in areas that can make them more difficult to remove, such as the neck. Since your neck contains dozens of large arteries, blood vessels, and nerves that can affect the entire body, lipomas growing in these areas may need to be removed under general anesthesia or left in place permanently. However, the vast majority of lipomas can be removed without incident.

While the cause of lipomas is still being studied, they are more common in adults over 40 and younger than 60 and may be tied to other conditions, such as Gardner's syndrome, Madelung's disease, and Cowden syndrome. However, anyone suspecting that they have a lipoma should meet with their dermatologist to create a treatment plan.

2. Epidermoid Cysts

Prized by pop-a-holics across the globe, epidermoid cysts are hard lumps that can be filled with fluid, air, or macerated skin cells. Epidermoid cysts can be caused by acne, HPV infection, or even trauma, since a buildup of keratin can form when a single hair follicle is damaged. Epidermoid cysts can occur anywhere on the body but are most common in areas where there are lots of hair follicles, such as the arms, legs, head, groin, and face.

Since Epidermoid cysts are enclosed in a sac under the skin, at-home removal usually isn't effective. If any part of the sac is left in place, the epidermoid cyst can return.

To remove cysts, dermatologists carefully numb the area and then place a small incision in the surface of the skin. Sometimes, the entire cyst can be popped out of the area at once and then sent to pathology. Other times, the cyst has to be drained, and then the sac has to be removed piece by piece.

3. Neurofibromas

Unfortunately, hair follicles aren't the only type of tissue that can overgrow and cause problems. Neurofibromas form when nerve fibers develop tumors. However, unlike epidermoid cysts and lipomas, neurofibromas also produce inflammatory cells and mast cells that can cause painful swelling or frustrating itching.

While the majority of neurofibromas are harmless, some tumors can grow large enough to press on the surrounding nerves, causing motor issues. For instance, if you develop a neurofibroma in your face, it could cause issues with your vision or your ability to chew properly. However, when discovered and removed early, neurofibromas are usually easy to remove and don't tend to grow back.

Although body changes can be intimidating, visiting your dermatologist early is a great way to alleviate worry and stay healthy. Here at San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic , we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, comfortable experience for each and every one of our patients. In addition to offering preventive dermatology services, we can also help with MOHS skin cancer treatment and cosmetic dermatology.

Call or stop by our office today to schedule your next checkup.

Facial Benefits and Information

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Facials are more than simply having a mask put on your face. A facial involves a facial massage, an inspection of your pores and skin, and a deep cleaning your skin. If you've never had a facial before, you should consider getting one. Read on for the many benefits of getting a facial.

Delivering a Deep Pore Cleansing

A facial deep cleans your pores, getting rid of toxins and dirt that can lead to skin breakouts. These toxins and clogged pores can also make your skin appear dull or even oily. Cleansing the pores can give your skin a healthy, more youthful glow and will also tighten and tone your skin.

Increasing Your Blood Circulation

Facials can increase the blood flow in the cells of the face and improve the tone and texture of your skin. This can help rejuvenate your skin and give it a more youthful appearance. It can improve dryness and prevent or reduce wrinkles.

Providing a Relaxing Experience

A facial is a great way to spoil yourself a bit and to take some time out for just you. Get a facial for yourself and encourage healthy cell turnover while also giving yourself a healthy way to relieve your own stress.

Preparing for Your First Facial

Before getting your first facial there are a few things you should know.

Use a professional dermatologist. Going to a professional dermatologist for your facial will ensure the facial and pore cleansing is done properly, without pain or injury.
Give your dermatologist a list of medications you may be taking. If you are on medications, it could hinder the results of your facial. Give your dermatologist a list of your medications to prevent an allergic reaction or other type of skin allergy from the combination of the medication and the facial products being used.
Plan your facial accordingly. If you are getting married or have an upcoming event and want a facial beforehand, make sure you plan your facial well in advance so any redness or irritation goes away before your event. Don't plan a facial for the day before, as the results could vary per person.
Breakouts may occur. During a facial, dirt and toxins are being extracted from your pores and coming to the surface. These toxins may cause some short-lived breakouts.

Know ahead of time that your results are going to vary and that one facial is not going to make your skin perfect. It may take more than one facial treatment. You will also need to keep up with your facial treatments at home to ensure the results are long lasting. Some things you should do at home include:

Moisturizing. Keep your skin hydrated to prevent dryness by using moisturizer daily after showering.
Drinking water. This will also keep your skin hydrated and your pores clean and clear. Oils and grease from foods can all show in the pores of your skin, eventually leading to clogged pores.
Removing makeup at night. Do not sleep in your makeup. You're only asking for clogged pores and premature wrinkles.
Wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen can prevent premature wrinkles and sunspots. Sunscreen can also help prevent skin cancer. Wear at least SPF 50 on your skin whenever out in the sun.
Washing your face nightly. Removing makeup and other products from your face isn’t enough. Be sure to Wash your face with a gentle face wash in the morning and before bed at night to keep your pores clear.

There are a number of benefits of getting facials. Make sure they are done properly and are long lasting by visiting San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic for your next facial and for clean, clear and more youthful looking skin.

Surprising Health Conditions Dermatologists Can Diagnose

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When you think about being diagnosed by a dermatologist, you might think about skin cancer or acne. The truth is that dermatologists have many more responsibilities than you might realize. Dermatologists sometimes diagnose underlying conditions you aren't even aware of.

Next time you talk to your dermatologist, you might be surprised that there is more to your skin than you previously thought. In fact, seeing your dermatologist can be great for your overall health.

Celiac Disease

If your skin breaks out into clusters of blisters, especially around the elbows, knees, bottom, and head, you may have celiac disease. The bumps that develop may closely resemble herpes, but they are unrelated. They are often mistaken for eczema.

Often, people with celiac disease exhibit no digestive symptoms. Many don't even realize that their skin condition is linked. Fortunately, the condition is treatable. You may experience brighter, healthier skin after changing to a gluten-free diet.

Diabetes

Diabetes is not an uncommon disease, but many people do not even realize that they have it. Many people with pre-diabetes actually display thick patches of skin, often near the neck and armpit areas. They are called acanthosis nigricans, and they may look more similar to brown ink spots.

This condition presents with brown-tinted raised spots. In most cases, individuals with these spots are overweight. Losing weight is one way to prevent these spots, and it can also prevent diabetes.

Dietary Issues

Nutritional issues also come out in the skin. Your skin could tell the doctor that you have some sort of vitamin deficiency. Even when your body fails to tell you, your skin provides unique insight sometimes only a dermatologist can pinpoint.

Individuals lacking in Vitamin A may experience a condition known as phrynoderma, more commonly referred to as toad skin. Individuals on restricted calorie diets tend to experience this problem the most.

Lupus

Have you ever noticed a light redness to the top of your cheeks, similar to a sunburn? This symptom could be a sign of lupus. Lupus is a condition in which the body tries to attack itself. The condition can be dangerous if not addressed.

The redness in the cheeks tends to become most prominent after exposure to the sun. Discoid lupus may present as red and scaly, thicker than most skin conditions. Some people might not notice these spots because they do not cause any pain or itch. Unfortunately, they can lead to hair loss when they occur on the scalp.

Some types of lesions are only apparent when an active lupus flare-up is present. If you do not know that you have lupus but experience odd spots on your skin, you may benefit from a visit to the dermatologist.

Crohn's Disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases surprisingly cause skin issues for many people. Many people do not realize that digestive issues can manifest in the exterior of the body.

In many cases, Crohn's disease displays fissures and nodules. Erythema nodosum is the most common Crohn's disease symptom that exhibits on the skin, typically with red and purple spots.

Unfortunately, this skin issue is also accompanied by physical symptoms. It may begin to feel like you have the flu before the skin erupts. You may also feel warm over the parts of the body where the spots develop.

When you notice something off about your skin, you have options. You do not have to suffer in silence with symptoms. Your doctor can address your symptoms and help you find the root of the problem.

San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic offers excellent care for your skin, and we can find the problems that are more than just skin-deep. Call today to schedule an appointment.

When Should You Have a Skin Cancer Screening?

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Your skin is the largest organ of your body and often the most vulnerable. Like any other organ, your skin can potentially develop abnormal cell growth that qualifies as cancer, usually a basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.

Skin cancers, even melanoma, which is the most dangerous variety, can almost always be treated effectively and easily when detected early. Regular screenings can help ensure that if you ever do encounter skin cancer , your prognosis is excellent and your treatment is simple.

However, understanding when to have skin cancer screenings is just as important as knowing that you should. In this blog, we provide the current guidelines on screening frequency for adults in general as well as for individuals at particularly high risk of developing skin cancer.

All Adults

Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of medical risk. Schedule your first routine screening with a dermatologist or ask your physician to include the screening in a regular physical early in adulthood.

Throughout adulthood, have screenings performed regularly as recommended by your healthcare providers. When you reach 50 years of age, have a screening performed at least once a year.

In addition to routine screenings, you should schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you notice any of the following:

Alterations in mole border placement or diameter
Mole asymmetry
New color changes on an existing mole
Scaly spots on your skin that appear pink or gray, known as actinic keratoses

At your first screening, your healthcare provider will give you instructions for performing a self-check. You should perform a self-check at least once a year even if you have a low risk of developing skin cancer. During a self-check, look for the ABCDs: asymmetry or changes in the border, color, or diameter of a mole. You should also check for any new moles and monitor them for changes.

If you are unsure whether or not a mole exhibits concerning signs, make sure to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist.

You are considered at moderate to low risk of skin cancer if you don't fit into any of the risk factor categories we'll discuss in the next section. The individuals typically at the lowest risk are those with dark skin tones, have no family history of skin cancers, and avoid participating in high-risk behaviors like tanning.

Individuals at High Risk

Your risk for skin cancer can be complex to determine since skin lesions can develop due to environmental or genetic factors. However, you are considered at high risk if you have one or more of the following:

A compromised immune system
A higher than average number of moles
A history of severe sunburns, especially burns that manifested with blisters or required hospitalization
Fair skin, especially when combined with light eyes
Family history of skin cancer or other cancers, especially when the cancer affected a parent or sibling
Past radiation therapy or other forms of cancer treatment
Previous or current immunosuppressive medication
Tanning or sunbathing habits

While your healthcare providers will give you recommendations specific to your needs, individuals in this category generally must perform regular self-checks in addition to their office screenings.

Perform thorough self-checks at least once every three months. Schedule an official screening one to two times a year.

Use these guidelines as well as the personalized recommendations of your primary care physician and dermatologist. If you have been treated for skin cancer or another form of cancer in the past, you should consult your oncologist as well. These guidelines ensure that most adults exhibiting signs of skin cancer receive a diagnosis and treatment promptly.

For both general and emergency dermatology, trust the experts at the San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic.

7 Signs That You Could Benefit From Working With a Dermatologist

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Your skin is one of your largest and most sensitive body parts. You likely take daily steps to care for your skin, such as using lotion and staying adequately hydrated to combat dryness. However, many individuals do not have the expertise or tools necessary to address all of their skin complaints on their own.

In these situations, a dermatologist can offer the insight and treatments necessary for comfortable, blemish-free skin as well as proactive steps toward identification and management of skin conditions.

In this blog, we list seven characteristics that may indicate that you could benefit from scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist to discuss the health and beauty of your skin.

1. Changes in Sweat Patterns

By adulthood, you likely know when and how much you can expect to sweat in stressful situations, during physical activity, or when exposed to high temperatures. Diabetes, hyperhidrosis, or thyroid disorders call all cause sweating disorders.

If you notice this symptom, discuss your health with a dermatologist to determine if any underlying conditions are causing you to sweat excessively.

2. Chronic Skin Irritation

Skin irritation can develop due to numerous causes, from allergies to scrapes. Most skin irritations should dissipate within a few days. If you have skin irritation that persists or goes away and then reoccurs multiple times, talk to a dermatologist.

Rashes, bumps, itchiness, and other types of chronic skin irritation can come from skin disorders like eczema that require professional medical care to eliminate your discomfort.

3. Nail Health Issues

Dermatologists see patients for a broad range of issues, including nail and hair health as well as skin health. If the appearance or feeling of your nails changes significantly, the alteration may indicate an issue with your nail or overall health.

See a dermatologist if your nails change shape, become discolored, or develop a fungal infection.

4. Persistent Acne

Acne is a nearly universal part of puberty. However, normal acne should not last for long periods of time, cause serious pain, or scar. If your acne persists into adulthood and resists other forms of treatment, consult with a dermatologist.

Prescription cleansers or medication may be a critical part of resolving your acne issues.

5. Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

One reason you might routinely visit your dermatologist's office is for annual skin cancer screenings. While most adults should schedule these screenings each year, you should prioritize screenings if you exhibit risk factors for skin cancer.

These risk factors include a family history of skin cancers, irregularly shaped moles, fair skin, history of sunburns that blistered, and rashes with scaly textures.

6. Sudden Skin Health Changes

Any time the comfort, feeling, or appearance of your skin changes without an obvious explanation, you may want to consult with a dermatologist. Just like your sweat patterns and nails, your skin can reveal a lot about your overall health.

Implementing the changes recommended by your dermatologist can keep your skin health more consistent in the future.

7. Unexplained Hair Loss

Hair loss afflicts many individuals, some of which cannot avoid this change due to genetic predisposition or certain health conditions. However, many individuals deal with hair loss not knowing that the recommendations of a dermatologist could slow or stop their hair loss entirely.

Additionally, dermatologists can perform or prescribe the treatments for irreversible hair loss, such as transplants and laser procedures.

If you experience one or more of the signs listed above, prioritize scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist as soon as possible to address your skin complaints and maintain the health of your skin.

For comprehensive dermatology services, including skin cancer screening procedures, trust the San Antonio Skin & Cancer Clinic.