Dermatology is a branch of medicine dedicated to skin, hair, and nail care. A dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD) with advanced training and clinical experience to treat conditions and concerns related to these body parts.
You might see a dermatologist for:
A dermatologist may be able to identify and treat the following conditions:
Acne is a skin condition that develops when hair follicles, oily skin, bacteria, and dead skin cells clog the pores on the skin's surface.
Hair follicles are connected to oil glands (sebaceous glands) that produce sebum. When androgen hormones become active during puberty, these follicles can become sensitive to excess sebum and bacteria on the skin. As oil builds up in the skin's pores, they become infected and inflamed.
Dermatologists typically start by assessing the type and severity of an individual's acne before recommending a treatment plan tailored to their needs. This may involve topical treatments such as creams or gels containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which help reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin’s surface. In more severe cases, oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed to treat cystic acne that doesn't respond well to other treatments.
In addition to medical interventions, dermatologists often recommend lifestyle changes for people with acne-prone skin, such as avoiding harsh cleansers or moisturizers, as well as dietary modifications like reducing sugar intake or eating more anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens and fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Skin cancer (melanoma) is the most common cancer in humans, accounting for more than half of all cancers diagnosed. It occurs when cells in the skin grow abnormally and uncontrollably, often forming tumors or lesions on the skin's surface. Environmental factors, such as UV radiation from sunlight and tanning beds, and genetic factors that increase a person's risk of developing skin cancer can both contribute to its development.
When diagnosing melanoma, dermatologists will first perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area and may take biopsies of suspicious moles or lesions for further laboratory testing. If they suspect that an individual has melanoma, they can refer them to an oncologist for additional evaluation and treatment options.
Regarding treatment, dermatologists typically recommend surgical excision as the primary method for removing malignant tumors from the skin. Depending on how advanced the cancer is at diagnosis, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be recommended to reduce any remaining traces of tumor cells and prevent recurrence. In addition, some patients may benefit from immunotherapy treatments that help boost their body's natural defenses against cancerous cells. Finally, regular follow-up visits with a dermatologist can help ensure that any changes in existing moles are closely monitored over time, so early detection and intervention can occur if necessary.
When it comes to treating moles, dermatologists typically start by performing a physical examination of the mole or lesion and taking biopsies if necessary for more comprehensive testing. Depending on the severity and type of mole, they may recommend treatments such as surgical excision, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. In addition to medical interventions, dermatologists often recommend lifestyle changes that can help improve overall skin health and reduce the risk of melanoma recurrence. Finally, regular follow-up visits with a dermatologist can help ensure that any changes in existing moles are closely monitored over time so early detection and intervention can occur if necessary.
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