Medical dermatology refers to the treatment of skin conditions that affect your health and are generally covered by insurance. Aesthetic dermatology, on the other hand, refers to the treatment of skin conditions that are usually more cosmetic in nature and generally elective procedures that are not covered by insurance. Medical dermatology is an important aspect of maintaining your overall health and well-being. Everyone could benefit from wearing sunscreen, conducting periodic skin self-exams, and having regular visits to their dermatologist.
There are over 3,000 conditions that affect the skin, meaning there are very good chances that you are experiencing one or more of them—or will in your lifetime. A lot of people think of acne as the main skin condition, but this is simply because it’s so common and can be obviously seen. Although most people will experience some type and severity of acne in their lifetime, there are also a myriad of other skin conditions to be aware of.
Skin conditions can often be an early sign or one of the only visible signs of an underlying medical condition. It’s important to be vigilant and proactive as skin conditions can quickly worsen or significantly interfere with your quality of life. No matter what you’re struggling with, don’t worry. Working with a dermatologist is the best, safest, and fastest way to treat every skin-related medical condition.
Acne
There are various types of acne ranging from the typical blackheads and whiteheads to more severe cystic acne. Acne may require different types of treatments including prescription medications or medical-grade products. Procedures to treat scars left from acne are also available from your dermatologist, such as laser skin rejuvenation.
Rosacea
Rosacea is another common skin condition and causes an intensive and embarrassing red flush. Although rosacea isn’t dangerous, it can be frustrating. There is no cure for rosacea, but working with a professional to identify your triggers and treating the symptoms when they flare up can drastically reduce your struggles with rosacea.
Melasma
Melasma is a unique and stubborn type of hyperpigmentation. It can present in a variety of colors, including gray, and is often triggered by hormone fluctuations. That’s how it earned the nickname “the mask of pregnancy.” Like rosacea, melasma has no cure, but it does often go away on its own. Treating the symptoms using lasers, chemical peels, and other approaches can prove very useful in boosting self-esteem.
Skin Cancer
The most important skin condition of all is inarguably skin cancer. Skin cancer is 100% preventable, but most of us have experienced a sunburn or two in our life. Sun damage also has a cumulative effect, so every second you’re in the sun can add up and lead to skin cancer. There are various types of skin cancers, with melanoma being the deadliest. It’s best to catch skin cancer early because that’s when treatments are quickest and easiest. In early stages, or pre-cancerous stages, a simple in-office excision is usually all that’s required.
Moles
Moles are the leading red flag of skin cancer, but keep in mind that not all skin cancer presents as a suspicious-looking mole. Scheduling an annual “skin check” with your dermatologist is the number one way to catch skin cancer early. However, it’s also important to perform monthly self-checks at home (with the help of a partner if possible). Skin home checks combined with annual dermatologist checks can help you keep skin cancer at bay.
Contact RefinedMD
It’s important to see a dermatologist just as often as you see a general physician, dentist, or other healthcare professional. In cases where patients have certain skin condition histories, such as skin cancer, you may need to see your dermatologist even more frequently. At RefinedMD, we’re here for you with the latest treatments and procedures to help you get and keep your skin as healthy as possible. Call (408) 688-2082 to schedule your appointment.