Skin is the largest organ in the human body and the frontline of defence against external factors like weather and surfaces that we come in contact with. Genetics, diet, smoking and drinking habits and your lifestyle can all have an effect on our skin. It is no wonder that your skin demands and deserves your attention! While there are some home remedies which might help maintain the texture of our skin, sometimes it takes a specialist to help understand its individuality better.
A dermatologist is the one who helps maintain the health and appearance of your skin in addition to treating specific diseases pertaining to skin, hair, nails, oral and genital mucosal tissues. While maintaining a healthy skin regimen at home is important, there are various skin problems which cannot be treated at home. Instead of testing products on your skin – the most vital organ as well as the most exposed organ of your body – it is better and safer to seek an expert’s advice before the damage becomes irreparable.
Skin problems vary greatly in severity and symptoms. They may be painless or painful, can be temporary or permanent. Some may be genetic, while others have situational causes. Some skin problems are minor, and others can be acute and cause discomfort. Many a time, a skin disorder can be a symptom of severe internal diseases. Here are a few conditions and associated reasons for which you are better off visiting a dermatologist instead of self-diagnosing:
Eczema
Eczema is a broad term to describe several chronic skin conditions that manifest themselves as inflammation of the skin. The condition is very uncomfortable and in some cases, emotionally distressing. While over-the-counter and other medicines can ease the condition, it takes a dermatologist to diagnose eczema clinically, assisted by detailed skin examination and certain tests. Proper and timely check up and skin care are imperative in this case.
General Skin Care
Many of us usually visit a doctor only when the signs of the problem become visible or when the problem matures. But you can find a longer lasting solution and make informed choices if you seek professional advice at an early stage.
Visiting a dermatologist for general skin care, after all, is as important as seeing a doctor for an illness. For instance, people with dry and irritated skin often find it hard spending time in the pool, sun, or in air-conditioned spaces. While applying sunscreen is important, not every product is suitable for every skin type. Your dermatologist will suggest ingredients that can help relieve the problem permanently. Also, there is a lot more your skin might demand depending on its type which only an expert can help decode.
Serious Skin Diseases
There is a host of serious diseases or conditions that can plague our skin – like vitiligo, rosacea, psoriasis or skin cancer. However, many of these conditions can be cured, or their advance slowed down if diagnosed early. If you see any warning signs such as spots, changes in colour, thickness or texture of skin, it should prompt a dermatologist visit. Having your dermatologist examine your skin at least once a year for a routine check-up and signs of serious conditions is highly recommended.
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Persistent Acne
Acne is the most common skin condition. Though it is not life-threatening, it can be upsetting and often cause permanent scars and blemishes if not treated properly. Many of us self-test products in a bid to find the one that might work. While it seems cost-efficient in the short-term, sometimes products don’t give anticipated results or worse, can cause a problem that didn’t exist before. Acne is a complex phenomenon and can go well beyond teenage. It is wise to visit a dermatologist for its treatment.
Signs of Premature Ageing
Wrinkles, discolourations and skin changes that come with age can cause undesirable changes in the skin if not given timely attention and can even make one look old before time. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can speed up and worsen these signs of ageing, and so can dietary, drinking or smoking habits. Reasons for premature ageing can be many, and a dermatologist can help improve your skin’s health and suggest routine products, treatments or lifestyle changes to stop premature ageing in its tracks.
To sum it up
Your skin is precious, so give it the attention and care it demands before it is too late. Even if you may not have any skin problem, visiting a dermatologist for a routine visit or general check-up is never a bad idea – it takes an expert who is trained to understand and treat our skin to show us the whole picture. Talk to one of our experts today.
This article is a part of the Keen on Perfect Skin series. For more tips from skin experts, explore below!
