A dermatologist is a professional who has obtained a medical degree specializing learning how to examine, evaluate, diagnose and treat patients, both pediatric and adult, with disorders of the nails, hair, and skin both malignant and benign. The dermatologist is one with specific training in all of the following areas:

• Dermapathology: A subspecialty a dermatologist undertakes which falls under the categories of pathology and dermatology as well as surgical pathology. It involves a study and focus on cutaneous disorders both molecular and microscopic.

• Skin cancer diagnosis and treatment

• Skin disorder management

• Skin disease identification

• Skin conditions requiring surgical intervention

Acne

One of the leading issues a dermatologist deals with is acne: This is because acne is a universal condition, one affecting people of all ages, races, and males and females across the board. Acne can erupt on any part of the body and the exact causes for it are still unknown. While many people choose to deal with acne eruptions with the use of affordable over-the-counter treatments, such treatments do not always work or they may, for whatever reason, stop working. In that case, a dermatologist can assist the individual by offering alternative prescribed treatments.

Skin cancer

The detection of skin cancer early on is imperative if one is going to deal with the condition successfully with a positive outcome. In the past thirty years, more individuals have gotten skin cancer than all of the other types of cancers combined. A dermatologist is one who can conduct annual skin screenings. When you notice a change in the skin or a growth that changes color, size or shape, or new moles, a dermatologist is the expert to see for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care.

Chronic skin issues

Some skin conditions are chronic and require ongoing care from a professional. Such conditions include eczema where the skin forms itchy, flaky, irritating patches. A similar condition can be identified in psoriasis where one develops scaly, red, itchy areas on the body. A dermatologist is trained to handle such conditions.

Cosmetic issues

Cosmetic issues are also among the conditions that dermatologists treat. A dermatologist can help repair scars, remove hair, and can offer laser treatments, fillers for wrinkles, and in some cases, liposuction. What’s more, they can help fix issues related to spider- and varicose veins as well as any issue regarding skin pigmentation. Bear in mind health insurance may not cover all cosmetic conditions.

Expert tips

If you need tips from an expert who knows about skin, hair, and nail conditions, the dermatologist is the person to go to for such advice. A dermatologist can help you prepare for the summer and being out in the sun while getting the best in terms of UV protection. This same specialist can educate you about skin types and answer all your skin care related questions throughout the year.

Consider that a dermatologist may have a more cost effective means of dealing with a skin condition. You can end up spending a fortune on over the counter products for acne conditions where a dermatologist has a more powerful and successful treatment for less. This is ultimately an investment in yourself.