Whether this is the first time you’ve ever stepped foot inside a dermatologist’s office, or you are simply looking to gather more information beforehand, a dermatologist can be an integral part of your medical care. Most of us, at some point or another, will deal with skin problems that a primary care physician won’t have the expertise or tools to properly treat. Luckily, our dermatologists can. Here are answers to your most frequently asked questions regarding skincare and the dermatology services we offer.
How often should I see a dermatologist?
It’s always a good idea to visit your dermatologist at least once a year for a comprehensive evaluation and exam. After all, certain issues could be present that you might not even notice, but our team has the tools to recognize. By coming in once a year we can identify problems early on when they are easier to treat. Of course, if you are dealing with chronic skin problems such as acne or psoriasis, you may need to turn to us every couple of months for care.
What are the reasons to turn to a dermatologist?
There are many reasons to turn to a dermatologist. Anyone who cares about the health of their skin, hair, and nails can benefit from visiting us at least once a year; however, you may also want to turn to a dermatologist if,
- You’re dealing with severe acne or acne that isn’t responding to home care
- You have a mole that looks suspicious or is changing
- You have red, cracked, scaly, or burning skin
- You want to treat signs of aging
- You are dealing with hair loss
- You think you may have a skin infection
When should I wear sunscreen?
Most people don’t wear sunscreen as often as they should. Simply, you should be applying sunscreen to your face and body all 365 days out of the year. It doesn’t matter if it’s raining, snowing, or cloudy, UV rays are still present and they can damage the skin. Make sure that you are using sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Our dermatologist can provide you with sunscreen recommendations if you’re not sure what kind is right for you.
How often should I get screened for skin cancer?
Everyone can benefit from an annual skin cancer screening. Since you’re already visiting your dermatologist once a year for a checkup, this is also the perfect time to get screened for skin cancer. This examination only takes a few minutes, and it could save your life. Those who have a family history of skin cancer or other risk factors may want to talk with us about coming in more than once a year for a skin cancer screening
If you are looking for a dermatologist around Santa Barbara, CA,then call Kind Dermatology and Medical Spa at (805) 250-9891 to schedule your next appointment!