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?