Where to Begin? Come in for a Skin Consultation and See
From acne to wrinkles, a dermatologist is specially trained to handle all types of skin conditions. If you’re struggling with things like eczema, rosacea, warts, skin rashes, or a host of other ailments, we can help. Here are a few of the most common conditions found in dermatology offices.
What You Learn from a Skin Consultation
Common Skin Conditions
Many patients start visiting a dermatologist in their teen years due to acne. The changing hormones during adolescence cause excess sebum (oil) production, which leads to clogged pores resulting in whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Dermatologists frequently treat acne, either through prescription medications, over-the-counter treatment recommendations, or cosmetic treatments like light therapy or microdermabrasion.
On the other side of the spectrum is eczema (also called dermatitis), which presents as patchy, itchy red or brown areas of skin. These patches often don’t respond to regular moisturizers and may need prescription-strength corticosteroid topical creams. Rosacea is another common skin concern. This condition causes redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels, usually in the face. Oral or topical treatments, as well as help with identifying triggers, can all be provided by a dermatologist.
Other concerns include things like warts — which are especially common among athletes — or skin rashes. Whether these issues are recurring or show up right after exposure to certain triggers, a dermatologist can help pinpoint the issue and treat the skin.
Aging Skin Concerns
Besides the issues with pores, inflammation, and allergic reactions, there’s also the issue of aging skin. As the years pass, our skin naturally produces less collagen and elastin, the two substances responsible for keeping skin looking youthful, firm, and tight. Many people come into the dermatologist’s office with concerns about wrinkles and fine lines. Sometimes, an anti-aging skin care regimen is all that’s needed at the time. Other times, a dermatologist can talk to you about popular anti-aging cosmetic treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, or thread lifts.
In addition to the aging process, our skin also faces constant exposure to the elements. Excess exposure to the sun’s UV rays (or artificial light sources like tanning beds and booths) can cause dark spots and pigment problems in the skin. A dermatologist can first check to ensure that these spots are not cause for concern, then they can offer solutions like chemical peels or laser therapy to help reduce them.
Another big concern when it comes to sun exposure is problematic moles. Moles are often benign, but they’re sometimes an indicator of something more serious like skin cancer. You should receive an annual skin cancer screening as an adult, especially if you’re at a higher risk of developing it. Early detection is crucial in treating skin cancer, and a dermatologist can both diagnose skin cancer and perform the removal or excision needed to eradicate the skin cancer.
Contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates
Unsure what’s going on with your skin? Make an appointment today to get an examination, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. If you’re in Baton Rouge or the surrounding areas, contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists.