09 Mar Why We Prioritize Our Physicals and Dental Appointments (but Not Our Skin)
Getting an annual physical and seeing our dentist at least once per year is standard self-care for many in the country. However, a lot of people don’t see a dermatologist or other skin expert unless it’s to address a vanity issue—or until a problem is so severe it can’t wait any longer. That’s unfortunate since our skin is the biggest organ we have and it’s constantly exposed to external factors like pollution and UV damage. Ultimately, skin care involves a hybrid of cosmetic and medical/dermatological care. Just because a problem is common, such as acne, doesn’t mean it’s strictly cosmetic. For example, acne can seriously disrupt our self-esteem, be painful in many instances, and leave lasting scars and hyperpigmentation.
There are over 3,000 unique skin conditions, so it’s guaranteed you have at least a few. Acne, rosacea, eczema, unwanted moles, hyperpigmentation like melasma, and actinic keratosis are just a few of the most common complaints. These are all diagnosable skin conditions that can be treated by a skin care professional. There is no need to deal with skin problems alone, and most over the counter solutions are not helpful for the majority of patients. Instead, it’s important to prioritize dermatological care just as much as you do for the rest of your body.
The Importance of Skin Care
Many skin conditions are benign, though they can reduce your self-confidence and self-esteem. Even conditions with no “cure,” such as rosacea, can have symptoms lessened when managed by a professional. For example, laser skin rejuvenation can be a helpful tool for many chronic conditions. Microneedling is a fantastic way to treat a myriad of conditions including light scarring, many kinds of hyperpigmentation, and skin laxity. Of course, one of the biggest goals everyone should have is keeping skin cancer in check.
Skin cancer is surprisingly common and although it most often presents in those with fair skin and a lot of moles, it can happen to anyone. Self-checks monthly are important, but of course there are parts of your body that are hard to monitor. Following the ABCDEs of skin cancer check is an at-home practice that should be complemented by annual visits to your dermatologist. Asymmetry, (irregular) borders, (unusual) colors, diameter bigger than the head of a pencil eraser, and evolving or changing moles should all be monitored closely. Skin cancer is fast and easy to get rid of when caught early, even melanoma, but if skin cancer is not caught it can turn deadly.
Combine Cosmetic and Medical Care
It is nearly impossible to separate cosmetic and medical care when it comes to your skin. The two are closely intertwined. While someone may want to get help with their melasma diagnosis, a particularly stubborn form of hyperpigmentation, it’s also important to remember that melasma is a medical condition. There is no cure for it, though it usually goes away on its own. However, a skin care expert can help you lessen the appearance of it through the latest technology and medical-grade topicals.
Have you booked your dermatological check for 2023 yet? Right now is a great time to do so before spring and summer sun damage changes your skin conditions. Plus, right now you can upgrade to medical-grade topicals, including sunscreen. During your consultation or appointment, we’ll work with you to determine the best products for you, your skin, and your goals. Keep in mind that sunscreen does have an expiration date, as do all products, so update your toiletry cabinet now with hand-selected items. It’s the best way to safeguard your skin and maximize the results of any in-office treatment.
Book your dermatology check today and tick one more item off your to-do list. Contact RefinedMD today by calling the clinic during business hours or, for an even quicker response, complete the online contact form right now.