08 Mar A Medical Dermatology Rundown
There are two types of dermatology, medical and cosmetic. At RefinedMD, we treat all types of dermatological needs, including medical dermatology. Patients depend on us to provide the best in care and the widest range of medical dermatology procedures and technologies. From skin cancer screenings and annual mole checks to effectively treating a variety of conditions like acne and rosacea, medical dermatology is a key part of your overall health and well-being.
The skin is the largest organ of the body. It is also regularly exposed to dangerous environmental factors like UV rays, smoke, and pollution. It is important to take care of your skin as diligently as you care for every other part of your body.
Many people do not see a dermatologist until there is a big scare, such as a troubling mole, or because they have become fed up with over-the-counter solutions that don’t work. However, creating and maintaining a relationship with a skilled dermatology clinic is paramount to living a full, longer, happier life.
WHAT DO MEDICAL DERMATOLOGISTS TREAT?
Dermatologists put the health and safety of patients first and foremost. A wide variety of medical conditions can be treated and monitored only by a dermatologist.
Acne and scars resulting from acne are among the top reasons a person initially seeks out a dermatologist. There are many types of acne, and hormones as well as bacteria can be a leading cause of breakouts. Some acne is mild, such as whiteheads and blackheads, while others such as cystic acne can be painful and leave permanent scars. Over the counter medications are rarely effective for more severe acne. However, combining topical and oral prescription medications with treatments for scarring can get your acne under control. This combination can be achieved with the help of our experts.
Actinic keratosis is usually a benign skin growth. It looks like a rough, scaly patch, but in some cases, it is a sign of pre-cancer. Removing and sometimes testing actinic keratosis is an important part of catching skin cancer early while also increasing self-confidence. Even when these spots are benign, they can be annoying, and many patients want them removed.
Birthmarks are concentrated areas of hyperpigmentation, and can be brown or red. Although they are rarely dangerous, they can dramatically reduce self-esteem and self-confidence—especially if they are large and visible. Fortunately, there are many treatment options for birthmark removal available.
Brown spots, another form of hyperpigmentation, can often occur with age and sun exposure. Sometimes these brown spots can be an indicator of pre-cancer, but they are usually benign. Still, they can make a person look older than they are and interfere with an otherwise pleasing complexion. Many treatments are available to reduce and eliminate brown spots.
Nobody knows what causes eczema, but there are various treatments available to reduce the side effects. The first step is to determine personal triggers, which can be achieved with the help of a dermatologist. Controlling and minimizing the effects of eczema is the ultimate goal.
Melasma is a type of skin darkening and hyperpigmentation. It is especially common in pregnant women, and can look gray instead of the usual brown coloring. It is rarely dangerous, but can lower self-esteem. Treating melasma requires specific approaches, particularly for pregnant women.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition of the autoimmune system that leads to fast skin cell buildup. The buildup causes a scaly, inflamed skin surface and excessive redness. Topical and oral medications may be prescribed, and photodynamic therapy can help with the symptoms.
Rosacea is another skin condition that has no cure, but side effects can be treated. The excessive flushing may be treated with certain lasers, but identifying triggers is just as important. Just like with eczema, we work with clients to keep rosacea in check.
There are many types of skin cancers, and melanoma is the deadliest of any form of skin cancer. Catching skin cancer early usually means fast and easy treatment. However, skin cancer isn’t always “obvious,” and the ABCDEs of moles is just a general framework. Only a dermatologist can diagnose skin cancer, and that requires regular skin and mole checks.
Warts are harmless growths, but can be annoying and very unsightly. Not all over the counter treatments work, or keep warts from reappearing. The fastest and most effective way to remove warts is through treatment at a dermatology clinic. A variety of approaches are available that offer immediate results.
Vitiligo is a rare condition in which patches of melanin in the skin lighten or completely fade over time. Although any person can have vitiligo, it is most noticeable in those with more melanin in their skin. The condition isn’t dangerous, but the results can affect self-esteem. There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are various treatments to improve the overall aesthetic of the skin.
Annual skin exams are your best tool for catching and preventing skin cancer, as well as a wide host of skin disorders and diseases. It’s just as important to see your dermatologist every year as it is to see your general physician.
Are you looking for a highly skilled medical and cosmetic skin expert near you? Contact RefinedMD today by calling the office or filling out the online form.