2924What is a dermatologist?
Dermatology is a branch of medicine dealing with the skin, a speciality with a medical as well as a surgical component. Essentially a dermatologist is a specialist tasked with managing diseases affecting the skin, the hair, the mucous membranes, and the nails. They sometimes also deal with cosmetic problems.
Most dermatologists in London are also skin surgeons, important since there’s been a worldwide rise in rates of skin cancer, the commonest cancer of all. A consultant dermatologist can lead an entire multidisciplinary skin cancer team, as well as caring for patients and managing input from experts like histopathologists, oncologists, plastic surgeons, and specialist cancer nurses. They can also work closely with relevant specialists in disciplines like rheumatology-dermatology and gynaecology-dermatology.
When to see a dermatologist?
Your first stop, unless the condition is very serious, tends to be your GP or family doctor. If you have problems with your skin, hair, nails, or mucous membranes, you should be referred to a London dermatologist if the condition persists and doesn’t go away with everyday treatments at home. If you’re concerned about the cosmetic aspects of a skin condition you might be referred to a specialist cosmetic dermatologist. If you have a mole or wart that changes colour, size or shape, it’s wise to see a dermatologist since these are often indicators of early skin cancers. If that’s you, don’t delay!
What conditions does a dermatologist treat?
- Acne
- Alopecia Areata (Hair Loss)
- Dermatitis
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
- Fungal Infection
- Impetigo
- Measles
- Melanoma
- Moles
- Psoriasis
- Rash
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Rubella (German Measles)
- Scleroderma
- Skin Cancer
- Skin Tags
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Vasculitis
- Warts (Viral)
- Shingles
- Rosacea
- Verruca
- Cysts
- Sarcoidosis
- Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Lupus
- Hives
- Minor Skin Surgery
What procedures can you find at a dermatology clinic in London?
- Acne And Scarring Treatments
- Cryotherapy
- Mole Removal
- Tattoo Removal
- Excision Of Skin Lesion
- Cautery
- Skin Cancer Screening
- Skin Cancer Surgery
- Mesotherapy
- Video Consultation
What should you expect at a dermatology clinic?
Your first visit to a dermatologist in London might come about thanks to a referral by your GP or family doctor. Because their focus is to maintain healthy skin for life, they will first take a detailed medical history from you, to inform an accurate diagnosis. They will ask questions about the condition that’s worrying you, and examine it if necessary, then use the information to create a workable skin care plan tailored to your unique needs.