09 Mar The 4 Most Common Medical Dermatology Concerns
We often separate dermatology into two camps: medical and cosmetic. However, at RefinedMD a lot of the time we find that medical skin issues overlap with cosmetic worries. After all, just because acne is a common medical concern (and one that causes scarring and low self-esteem) doesn’t mean it fits neatly into only the cosmetic category. There are a lot of intersections between medical and cosmetic dermatology, especially when it comes to these four prevalent conditions.
Dr. Lindsey Yeh performs the majority of the medical dermatology treatments in our clinic, often collaborating with our aesthetic team for optimal results. Acne, rosacea, eczema, and skin cancer are the four most common issues that bring patients to a medical dermatologist. Fortunately, there are treatments available for all of these issues—and the earlier you get professional help, the better off you’ll be.
Acne Requires a Personalized Treatment Plan
Most people will struggle with acne at some point in their life, and it’s far from a teenage rite of passage. A lot of teenagers have acne because changing hormones can cause breakouts. This is also why acne is so common among women during their menopause. However, there are many types of acne from the common white heads to painful, scar-inducing cystic acne. Acne is caused by bacteria trapped in the skin and can be exacerbated by various triggers ranging from stress to lack of good sleep.
You don’t have to live with acne, and it’s rare for over the counter topical creams to keep your acne in check for good. Only a dermatologist has the tools and prescription-level medications to give you pain-free, clear skin that you’ll feel proud to show off. The exact acne regimen will vary person to person, and you may require a little trial and error to find the treatment that works best. Dr. Yeh will also work with you to determine options to remove lingering signs of acne such as scarring or hyperpigmentation.
Rosacea and Facial Redness
If you have rosacea, you know it takes the concept of blushing to the next level. Nobody is sure exactly what causes rosacea, but we do know that there are certain triggers like sunlight and certain foods. Rosacea presents as a very strong facial flush and although it isn’t dangerous it can be embarrassing. In severe situations, it can even make people avoid social situations they would otherwise love to participate in, from going on a date to taking a part in a community play.
There’s no cure for rosacea, but there are treatment options such as laser and light therapy. Working with a dermatologist, you can help figure out what your unique triggers are as well as the best treatment plan for you. There’s no reason you need to let rosacea control your life or keep you from taking on exciting new challenges. With the right dermatological team in your corner, you can help keep rosacea in its place.
Eczema Options & Stopping Skin Cancer
Like rosacea, we’re not completely sure what causes eczema although theories point to an overactive immune system. Also like rosacea, there’s no cure for eczema but plenty of ways to control it. Eczema presents as skin that is red, itchy, rough, and cracked. A lot of celebrities have become open about their own struggles with eczema in recent years, including Kim Kardashian. This has helped open up conversations about eczema, and has brought more patients to their dermatologist to get help with this common condition. Eczema treatments vary based on you, your skin, and your eczema symptoms. There are many topical options to soothe the skin, and laser and light therapy can also be helpful in some situations.
Skin Cancer
Unfortunately, the fourth most common skin condition is skin cancer. There are different types of skin cancer, with melanoma being the deadliest. However, when skin cancer is caught early, it can be easily removed with an in-office procedure. There’s no chemotherapy and no radiation necessary for skin cancer that’s caught in the initial stages. Skin cancer often presents as a mole, but that’s not always the case—which is why it’s so critical to prioritize your annual “skin check” with your dermatologist.
Schedule your consultation for a mole check, eczema, rosacea, acne, or any other skin condition today by calling RefinedMD at (408) 688-2082.