Should you see a dermatologist?

At bh, we are all for DIY skin care, just look at what these at-home hacks can do for your complexion from the comfort of your own bathroom! But not all skin issues can be blitzed away at home.
From time to time, acne and blackheads persist in spite of our best efforts, while other concerns, such as skin irritations, raging rashes and irregular moles are generally a sign it’s time to see a professional to assess and treat the issue. We spoke to dermatologist and founder and director of ENRICH clinic, Dr Michael Rich, about what a derm can do for you...
1. A dermatologist can help establish your at-home skin care regimen
You might think you know your complexion better than anyone else, but sometimes it takes an expert to identify certain skin concerns (such as rosacea, eczema and psoriasis) and, with some in-depth analysis, what’s causing them. As Dr Rich puts it, “It’s always good to receive a specialist’s advice regarding an appropriate skin care regimen.” Even if you leave with something as simple as a single product switch, it could make all the difference to your complexion.
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2. A dermatologist can recognise skin issues you didn’t know you had
According to Dr Rich, “Psoriasis, acne and rosacea are the most common skin problems in general.” But this doesn’t mean we always know exactly what they look like, or how to address them at home. Acne scarring and pigmentation can be similarly varied in appearance and tricky to treat, even if you already have a serum such as SK-II Whitening Power Spots Specialist or Environ Evenescence C-Boost in your arsenal. This is why Dr Rich recommends seeing a dermatologist for “detailed diagnoses” and “appropriate professional treatments such as laser treatments and/or medications if needed” to complement your at-home skin care regimen.
3. A dermatologist can also identify/treat more serious skin problems
Dermatologists are specially trained to identify undetected signs of skin cancer such as irregular sun spots and moles. The Cancer Council recommends all adults should check their skin and moles every three months, but if you’ve ever been to a tanning salon, or been badly sunburned in the past, it’s especially well worth seeing a professional to make sure nothing abnormal is going on. Remember, identifying cancerous spots early can save your life!
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4. A dermatologist will treat your skin concerns individually
Another advantage of seeing a dermatologist is that they specifically tailor your at-home skin care regimen. According to Dr Rich, the exact course of action and/or treatment the dermatologist recommends will “really depend on the skin condition”, but should involve “specific concentrations” of ingredients to address your individual needs. The average number of visits required will also vary, “depending on what type of skin concerns you have”.
5. A word of advice from Dr Rich…
Not feeling the need to visit the dermatologist just yet? Dr Rich has one important tip to help you maximise your at-home skin care regimen: “Always wear sunscreen with SPF 50+ for skin protection. This can help reduce the risk of causing many different skin problems [and need for professional advice].” *Slathers on Elucent Anti Ageing Day Moisturiser SPF 50+*
Have you ever visited a dermatologist? Which skin concerns have you sought professional advice for?
Have you tried any of the products mentioned above?
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117 Member Comments
Check out YouTube channels: Davin Lim, Dr Dray and Samantha Bunting.
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There's so much information online and they seem pretty expensive
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Lucky to have a dermatologist and pharmacists in my family.
I take their advice.
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If money wasn't a problem then i would happily go see a dermatologist.
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I've seen a dermatologist for medical skin issues. She was so helpful, and worked really hard to solve the problem. If I ever had another issue I'd definitely go back!
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My neck is very red, could be a good idea
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Good to know.
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I would love to see one but all the ones I have looked into cost far too much
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I see my dermatologist, who specialises in the treatment of skin cancers, every twelve months to have my skin checked. After having a melanoma removed at the age of 21 I certainly don't want to take any risks. My health is far more important than worrying about how much the treatment will cost and, besides, part of the bill can be claimed through Medicare.
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I'm sure more people would see a dermatologist if it wasn't so expensive.
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I have uneven skin tone and very sensitive, dry skin!
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If I had a few spare hundred dollars for a one off consultation, then sure, but unfortunately I do not.
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Great article. some good tips here
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I would love to go and see one about my rosacea. Maybe one day if i get the opportunity.
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They can be expensive but you get more than half back on medicare.
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I went to a dermatologist to reduce my pigmentation and after several $200 consultation fees and lots of expensive and difficult to source skincare products later.... nothing
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I went once to get skin cancers checked, she recommended some IPL for my face but it was ongoing treatment and I couldn't justify the cost plus the dermatologist appointment in itself was so expensive and couldn't claim any of it on medicare or a health fund. Just too expensive unfortunately.
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Personally, i think going to a dermatologist is a waste of time and money unless you have a medical issue or condition. If you just wanted a good skincare regime you should see a beauty therapist.
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I have wanted to see a dermatologist but it is not currently within my budget unfortunately.
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I think seeing the derm should be normal - it's normal in Korea
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I see a dermatologist every time I go Europe. Same with the dentists and other specialist doctors. The medical system in Australia is great but very basic. And don't want to spend a horrendous amount of money for the service that will cost me less ( even with air fares) and the standard will be the same if not better.
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Went to derm for roaccutane prescription and she just wanted to write out my prescription and send me out the door as soon as possible. Left me feeling down after spending $250 just to see her.
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That's just wrong Glided isn't it? How rude and what a rip-off. I hope the prescription helped to improve your skin at least. I know I won't be seeing a dermatologist anytime soon now
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Many years ago I had to see a Dermatologist to get a prescription for Roaccutane because my GP was unable to prescribe it. How crazy is that
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Having acne in my twenties I saw a skin specialist way back then and went on Roacutane which ridded me of the dreaded acne I was suffering.
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