Questions You Should Be Asking Your Dermatologist
An appointment with your dermatologist needn’t solely focus on your reason for going in, so make the most of your visit to the doctor by asking a range of important questions. This can include getting clarification on why your skin has recently changed, what could be causing your breakouts, or learning more about latest skin care technologies. No matter the case, asking these 11 questions are absolutely worth bringing up while you are in front of a specialist. Take this advice and we guarantee you’ll leave the doctor’s office with some valuable (and perhaps even life-changing) information.
How can I monitor my moles?
Early detection is the key to effective treating melanoma skin cancer. But instead of relying on your dermatologist to check for any abnormalities, ask your doctor to teach you how to monitor your body at home, then do so on a regular basis. Your dermatologist will be able to tell you which warning signs to look out for during a self exam — this knowledge could truly save your life.
Is my diet damaging my skin?
The food you put into your body is just as important as the products you use on your skin. To have a glowing, vibrant complexion, that means your diet needs to align with the needs of your skin, and anything greasy or full of sugar will have the opposite effect. Mediterranean foods like fish, leafy greens, and olive oil, Health explains, are a great foundation for a healthy skin diet.
What are the best products for my skin type?
It’s difficult to understand your skin type without the help of a professional. For example, you might assume that you have oily skin because of your shiny T-zone, but your dermatologist may consider your skin a combination, or even dry. Get a doctor’s advice on what kind of skin you have, and use this as the first step to selecting the right products for you.
How often should I exfoliate?
Exfoliation is a crucial step in your skin care routine, but knowing how often to do it isn’t really clear. You don’t want to over-exfoliate, InStyle points out, as this can get rid of cells that aren’t ready to be shed. That being said, you also don’t want to under-exfoliate, as you’ll be left with blackheads, a layer of dead skin, and clogged pores.
To get a definitive answer, ask your dermatologist how many times per week they recommend you exfoliate. Asking them first means you can avoid any problems associated with exfoliating too often or not enough.
How can i better protect my skin?
We wish our patients asked more questions about skin cancer protection and the risks of sun damage. Preventative care with the use of sunblock is paramount for your overall health and appearance. “The number one cause of aging is sun damage. “It is important to remind our patients that sunscreen, while helpful and necessary, is not equivalent to actually blocking the sun. Even with sunscreen, spending significant time in the sun will still cause sun damage.” And the dangers of prolonged sun exposure go far beyond the cosmetic. In addition to the negative cosmetic effects of aging, significant sun exposure also significantly increases their risk of skin cancers.
Is it okay to go out in the sun with this prescription?
While sun exposure isn’t exactly celebrated in the dermatology world to begin with, some treatments may make your skin even more sensitive to sunlight. If you’re taking a topical or oral medication for skin, be sure to ask your doctor if sun exposure will throw a monkey wrench into the treatment.
Which foods should I be avoiding?
Whether you’ve got an allergy to gluten or you’re unknowingly consuming a hundred grams of sugar hiding in your power bars every day, ask your dermatologist which foods you should be staying away from. Certain ingredients (like gluten) can hide in foods, and changing your diet can dramatically change your skin.
Are there ingredients that will upset my skin?
Much like food, there are skin care ingredients that should be avoided at all costs, depending on your skin type. For those with acne, benzoyl peroxide works wonders, but the same ingredient can make dry skin even more dry. Talk to your doctor about what will work best for you.
Do I really have to wear sunscreen for a quick errand?
This is a question that I’ve never asked, because I didn’t want to know the answer. I assumed the answer would be yes, but it seems silly to glob on sunscreen so that I can walk from my car into the coffee shop. However, it truly is a question that needs to be considered.
It’s a good idea to apply sunscreen every morning before you apply your makeup. Sun damage is cumulative, so an hour here and an hour there adds up over the years. Take a bottle of sunscreen with you in your bag so you have it ready when it’s time to reapply later. Reapply every two hours or so and more often if you get sweaty or wet.
Is indoor tanning okay?
Now come on, we know what the dermatologist’s answer is going to be to this one, but so many bright young women still worship the tanning bed. If you’ve been indulging in a little extra UV action, talk to your dermatologist about the real dangers.
The UV rays from a tanning booth are harmful to your skin and increase your chance of developing melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. “They also cause premature signs of aging such as wrinkles and brown spots.”
In fact, people who try a tanning bed before turning 35 have a 75 percent increased risk of developing melanoma over the course of their lives! Tanning is responsible for more cases of skin cancer than smoking is for cases of lung cancer. Bottom line? It’s just not worth it.
What is this acne coming from?
Acne triggers are all around us, and if you find the root of the problem, you’ll be one step closer to a solution. Depending on whether your acne is caused by your diet, stress or hormonal changes, you can form an attack plan that will really work.
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?
It’s easy to remember sunscreen when you’re hanging at the pool and the sun is beating down on you. However, if you’re standing outside on a gloomy day watching your daughter play soccer, it just doesn’t seem as important. However, the weather truly doesn’t matter when it comes to wearing sunscreen.
You should wear sunscreen everyday, even on cloudy and cool days to help protect your skin from sun damage, premature signs of aging, and skin cancer. “You may not realize it, but even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can shine through the clouds.”