Even when you suffer from some of the most common skin issues, these conditions can still be a major source of embarrassment for many people. Whether you require acne treatment, have psoriasis (like approximately 3% of the population), or simply don’t know what skin problem you’re actually dealing with, taking the step to seek out professional help should be commended. But with the sheer number of dermatologists out there, how can you possibly find one that’s right for you? If you assumed that every skin doctor is essentially the same or are feeling overwhelmed by your choices, consult this guide first.
How to Choose a Dermatologist For Your Skin Needs
- Decide which kind you need: The first step in knowing how to choose a dermatologist is determining what type of skin doctor you really need. Typically, a medical dermatologist will treat acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and rashes or conduct skin examinations. They may also perform procedures like laser hair removal, Botox, or even CoolSculpting. Cosmetic dermatologists will usually focus their services on wrinkle treatment, scar removal, or various peels and injections. However, you may find certain dermatologists offer all of these services. Which brings us to our next point…
- Do your research: Once you’ve determined the type of dermatologist you’re searching for, you can read up on their practices, their areas of expertise, and their accreditations. Read their bios and get a good feel for the emphasis of their practice. You should also read some reviews of the doctor, facility, and other staff members. Of course, there’s only so much info you can glean from websites, which means your next step is to…
- Schedule a consultation: This is your chance to get a real feel for how the staff operates and whether this is the right doctor for you. If you can, schedule your appointment during a busy time (Mondays and Tuesdays are reportedly a good bet!). Have to wait a few weeks to get in? That may actually be a good sign. Once you’re there, try to get up the nerve to ask others waiting about their experiences. When you meet with your dermatologist, get a sense for their treatment style and how they would address your concerns. If you find you’re having trouble getting in a word edgewise, you may want to go back to the drawing board. After all, you’re the one who needs to be happy with your treatment!
Knowing how to choose a dermatologist who can assess and address your skin issues can be difficult. But the effort you put in here will be well worth it in the end. To find out more about how our team can help improve the appearance of common skin issues, please contact us today.