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Dermatology Basics

Dermatology is the medical practice focusing on skin, hair, and nail care. Dermatology is practiced by Doctors of Dermatology, known as dermatologists. Dermatologists are medical doctors (MDs) who are fully trained in primary care and possess specific clinical experience to diagnose and treat conditions related to the body areas listed above.

Some conditions that can be diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist include:

• Acne
  
• Eczema
  
• Rosacea
  
• Dermatitis (skin irritation)
  
• Skin infections
  
• Melanoma (skin cancer)
  
• Moles
  
• Hair loss/ abnormal hair growth
  
  

In addition to diagnosing and treating medical conditions related to the skin, dermatologists can perform cosmetic procedures like laser hair removal or laser scar treatment.

Other forms of cosmetic work performed by a dermatologist include:

• Sunspot treatment
  
• Wrinkle/ scar tissue treatment
  
• Facial veins treatment
  
• Cellulite and fat removal
  
• Tattoo removal
  
• Anti-aging care
  
  

Dermatology Treatment for Acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the pores on the skin's surface become clogged by hair follicles, oily skin, bacteria, and dead skin cells.

Hair follicles in the skin 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.

Dermatology Treatment for Melanoma

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. Skin cancer can be caused by environmental factors, such as UV radiation from sunlight and tanning beds, and genetic factors that make a person more susceptible to developing it.

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.

Dermatology on Sesame

Because dermatology is considered a specialized form of care, many health insurance plans require a referral from a primary care provider before seeing a dermatologist. If you are getting care through an insurance network, you need to talk to your primary care physician about whatever signs, symptoms, or concerns you are experiencing. They will examine the affected area. Then, they will refer you to a dermatologist in your network if they deem it appropriate. With this referral, you can typically get insurance to cover most of your dermatology visit. It should be noted that insurance may not cover elective aesthetic procedures like laser hair removal or tattoo removal.

When you book a dermatology appointment through Sesame, no referral is needed. You can connect directly with a dermatology provider through Sesame and book an appointment without worrying about networks. Just find a dermatologist you want to see in the Houston/ Pasadena area, find a time that works for you, and book an in-person or virtual appointment.

Here’s how it works:

• Search “Dermatology” in Sesame’s search bar
  
• Browse the list of available providers near you
  
• Choose between video and in-person services
  
• Pick a time that works best for your schedule
  
• Set up your appointment
  
  

If you choose to book a video appointment, you will receive an email with a link to join the video appointment. You will also be able to access this link in another reminder email you will receive 30 minutes before the appointment start time, as well as within your account.