What skin related problems should you go to a dermatologist for?

Our skin is our largest organ, and the most visible. It is an incredibly complex structure, and if you take a closer look you’ll see glands and pores, hairs and scales, and every colour of the rainbow. It protects us from the elements, and it helps keep us at the right temperature.

Our skin needs to be sensitive as it allows us to feel textures, pressure, heat and cold, every aspect of touch. However, for some people this sensitivity means that we’re prone to painful, irritating and sometimes distressing skin conditions.

Our skin is the first thing people see when they look at us. We are covered by it, and so skin conditions, as well as often being painful, itchy, and physically damaging, can make us self-conscious and have a serious impact on our self-esteem.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a qualified physician who has further specialised in the area of skin, nail, and hair disorders and treatments. Dermatologists can treat medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin problems.

When should you see a dermatologist?

If you’re concerned about skin problems, the first person you’re likely to see is a GP, and GPs can certainly manage many common skin problems. Dermatology is a huge subject, however, and the sheer variety of skin conditions, treatments and the impact they can have on your life means that seeing a skin specialist can make all the difference.

When problem skin needs specialist care

Just because a skin problem is common does not make it any less distressing. Some of the most common skin problems – such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne – are notoriously difficult to treat effectively.

Problems with particularly visible skin – acne on the face, psoriasis on the scalp, scaly eczematous hands – can also benefit from specialist care. Visible, especially facial, skin problems can affect our self-esteem and mental health as well as causing physical problems.

Dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can be incredibly painful and itchy, even to the point where people scratch until they bleed and scar. Itchy painful skin causes sleepless nights, stress and distress. Skin problems tend to flare up when we’re stressed, meaning we’re caught in a vicious cycle of painful, unsightly skin.

Treating skin problems

So many different factors can influence the health of our skin – from stress-related skin problems, hormonal skin problems at every stage of life, and balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure and vitamin D – that it is always incredibly important to consult the very best dermatology specialists. Every skin condition is different, and every person is different so every treatment should be based on the most personalised, individual assessment. A dermatologist will examine, discuss, investigate and diagnose skin disorders, and offer the most up-to-date treatments so that you can be happy and comfortable – in your own skin.

There is no need to travel into London to see a Dermatologist. Phoenix Hospital Chelmsford offers a range of premium Dermatology services in Essex. We only work with the very best specialists, selected for their knowledge, experience and outstanding patient care.

To book an appointment with a specialist call us on 01245 801234 or email bookings@phoenixhospitalchelmsford.com.