Q&A
Why Should I See A Dermatologist If I Don’t Have Skin Problems?
An initial evaluation and thorough skin examination with an experienced dermatologist can establish a baseline for early detection of any suspicious-looking lesions or moles. A person with a history of skin cancer or a great deal of sun exposure should be seen for routine skin checks. Even dangerous skin cancers might appear completely normal to the untrained eye. Changes in size, shape, color, and irregular borders of moles could indicate possible melanoma or pre-cancerous lesions. Also, people with acne, eczema, psoriasis, or other chronic, inflammatory skin conditions should be seen on a regular basis.
Does Family History Play A Part In The Formation Of Acne?
Yes. If your family has a history of acne, see a dermatologist to discuss preventive measures or treatment. Acne can appear on anyone ages 8-80 and can surface due to hormonal changes, especially in women. Cystic acne is a type of inflammatory acne, causing deep, painful pimples to form under the skin. This severe form of acne can even appear in women ages 30-50 and beyond. When a woman’s estrogen wanes, androgen hormones act unopposed resulting in the appearance of acne, facial hair, and sometimes thinning scalp hair. In women only, oral prescription medication blocking androgens is very effective in treating cystic acne as well as thinning scalp hair and facial hair. Additionally, chemical peels, skin bleaching, micro-needling, and platelet rich plasma (PRP) can be used to improve any remaining scarring after treatment.
What Is Eczema?
Generally appearing in childhood, eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common inflammatory skin condition causing dry, itchy patches to form on the skin. Anyone with these symptoms should be evaluated by a dermatologist for diagnosis and proper treatment. New and powerful oral medications and injectables are now available for more severe cases, but most cases of eczema can be safely treated topically.
What Is Psoriasis And How Is It Treated?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. Salmon-colored skin plaques with silvery scales are typical hallmarks of the disease. Treatment depends on how severe the disease is, how much skin is affected, and where it’s located. Creams and ointments, ultraviolet light therapy, and oral or injectable prescription drugs are effective treatment options.
How Can I Fight The Effects Of Skin Aging?
No one understands skin like a dermatologist does. In the quest to age in the best possible way, a board-certified dermatologist is an essential ally. There are new and effective treatments constantly being developed to improve skin texture, appearance, and wrinkles due to aging. Dark spots can be treated with bleaching creams or other topicals, lasers, and/or chemical peels. Injectable fillers are used to fill out hollow areas of the face. Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport) can be injected to smooth wrinkles and sagging skin. Contact your dermatologist or dermatologist’s cosmetic consultant for a complete, anti-aging skin regimen.
About The Expert
Lauren Campbell, MD, FAAD
Cypress Dermatology
Dr. Lauren Campbell attended Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, graduating with honors. Her dermatology residency was completed at Rush University Medical College, Chicago, serving as chief resident her senior year. Additionally, she completed a one-year fellowship. Leisure time is spent with her three small boys. Dr. Campbell.
